Thanks to the work of Owen Geleijn and Chris Harper, four early breakaway riders were never able to get close to the day’s success. A reduced peloton set course for the final climb. Before the climb to the finish in Sokndal was even visible, the breakaway was over. George Bennett then accelerated at the foot of the climb. Shortly before that Vingegaard and Foss had to give in. The two were unable to keep up with the fast pace at the front. Mike Teunissen in turn returned to the front group. The Dutchman ultimately rode to seventh place. Bennett finished just outside the top ten.

Sports director Arthur van Dongen confessed that his team had hoped for more. “We had planned to control the race from start to finish. Chris and Owen both made a big contribution along the way. I think we succeeded in that mission. It was a real shame then that Jonas and Tobias had to let the other favourites go at the bottom of the final climb. We started this race with several riders who had a good chance of success. Unfortunately Tobias misses some race rhythm after his first good part of the season. He will improve in the coming days. Jonas had some physical problems after the Clasica San Sebastian, which hampered his preparation for this race. Despite these setbacks, there is still plenty to fight for in the coming days. We will do our best every day to fight for the day’s victory. In addition, the classification will be decided on the details. With Mike and George just a few seconds behind the current leader, we still have a good chance.”