Compatriot Remco Evenepoel, only 22 years old and still 2018 U23 World Champion in Innsbruck, nourishes the hopes of a triumph in Spain with so far convincing driving style. The Quick-Step pro extended his lead on the ninth stage yesterday at the mountain finish in Les Praeres. The South African Louis Meintjes won the day as a soloist.
Narrow streets and steep ramps of up to 24 percent – the final climb was tough once again. The organizers of the Tour of Spain, which also includes ex-professional Fernando Escartin (tour third party 1999), currently have no mercy on the players. Fourth place after 171.4 kilometers was enough for Evenepoel to further distance his direct competitors. He was 44 seconds behind his nearest rival for the red jersey, Enric Mas (Movistar). Defending champion Primoz Roglic (Jumbo) got another 52 seconds on the young Belgian. “I would have to lie if I said it’s not working at the moment. But there are still two tough weeks here,” said Evenepoel before today’s rest day.
Brit Adam Yates (Ineos) celebrated overall victory on the Germany tour yesterday, Belgian Wout van Aert (Jumbo) clinched his ninth win of the season at the Bretagne Classic. Lukas Pöstlberger (Bora) was involved in a fall but was able to finish the race. (free)
Source: Nachrichten
