“It's amazing to start the season like this. At the decisive moments for the general classification, I was always there”, Nordhagen says. “Beforehand, it was hard to set a goal. You don’t really know exactly where you stand, although I came through the winter without any problems. That has paid off with my good form here.”

During the final stage, Nordhagen’s impressive overall result was never in danger. On a perfectly flat course in Abu Dhabi, the sprinters’ teams focused mainly on reeling in the five attackers. Once that was done, Jonathan Milan sprinted to his third stage victory. The Team Visma | Lease a Bike riders all crossed the line safely behind him.
 

“That was also the only instruction we gave the riders today: get across the line safely, and we did that well”, sports director Maarten Wynants says, looking back on a successful week. “The original plan was to start with Jonas. His absence gave others the opportunity, and Jørgen seized that chance with both hands.”

The sports director adds: “Tijmen Graat also stood out in a free role. In addition, Wilco Kelderman showed a solid level in his season opener. We are very pleased with that.” Wynants is equally pleased with Nordhagen’s development. “To secure your second top ten finish in the general classification of a WorldTour race is impressive, especially with this field of competitors. This is the next step in his career.”

Last October, Nordhagen finished fifth in the Tour of Guangxi. “That was a nice way to end last season. But the level in the UAE Tour this week was higher, and the climbs were tougher and longer. The team supported me really well in that. This is a great step in my development. With a good winter training block in Spain and this week under my belt, I hope to take the next step with another altitude training camp”, Nordhagen concludes.