For the second day in a row a sprinting opportunity awaited in the Tour de Pologne. Today the riders rode 188 kilometres on relatively flat roads. After the start in Katowice, three riders formed the breakaway of the day, but the sprinters' teams kept the trio under control. They were caught at ten kilometres from the line.  

With four kilometres to go, the peloton was startled by a crash. The Team Visma | Lease a Bike riders remained unscathed. After the crash, a depleted peloton rode towards the finish line. Kooij was led to the front at the right moment by teammate Mick van Dijke. After a strong launch, Kooij was eventually passed by Meeus and stage winner Merlier.  

Classification leader Jonas Vingegaard looks back on the hectic final kilometres. “It was even more nervous than yesterday”, the Dane said. “We are racing without earpieces and that causes more stress in the peloton. It's supposed to make the sport safer, but I think it has the opposite effect. The battle to be at the front of the bunch creates unnecessary risks.”  

“Tomorrow's stage is one that should suit me. The climbs and hot weather conditions will make it extra tough. We will do everything we can to defend my position in the general classification. My feeling is getting better and better.”