Hessmann, who transferred from the Jumbo-Visma Development Team to the main squad last winter, went on the attack with four other riders and built up a seven-minute lead. In the difficult final, three short but steep climbs followed each other in quick succession, the young German went off on his own. Hessmann maintained a strong pace and picked up several points on all three climbs. As a result, he will start in the polka dot jersey tomorrow.

Hessmann's adventure ended at some twenty kilometres from the finish line, after which an explosive final awaited. Mike Teunissen saw his chance to surprise the reduced peloton with a vicious attack on the slopes of the final climb, but his attempt soon proved in vain.

"We knew it would be difficult to go for the stage win, as we have no real specialists. Mike went for it in the final stage but unfortunately didn't quite make it", sports director Maarten Wynants said. "Our goal was to have someone in the breakaway. Michel managed to do so and made a good attempt to stay ahead. The mountain jersey is a nice reward for the hard work at the head of the race."