UAE Team Emirates’ rider Anass Ait el Abdia sealed the General Classification title at the tenth and final stage of the Tour Du Maroc on Monday.

The Moroccan national champion took the win thanks, primarily, to his victory in the fourth stage – Houed Laou-El Hoceima.

The victory is the fourth of his career, following on from the 2016 National Championships, Tour du Prince 2015, and the Taghir stage of the Tour du Maroc 2014.

“I’m happy and proud, this victory comes at an important moment in my career,” said the 24-year-old who heads to the Gp Citta di Lugano and the Tour of Slovenia next. “I participated in the Tour Du Maroc as part of the Moroccan National Team and I am happy to have been able to finish with such a great result.

“Crossing the line at the Tour du Maroc as the overall leader is a feeling I cannot describe, but it is a very good feeling. I’m now looking forward to my upcoming races.”

The victory also delighted UAE Team Emirates’ Team Manager, Carlo Saronni.

“We are very proud of Anass and would like to congratulate him and the Moroccan National Team on this home win,” said Saronni.

“They were impressive throughout the race and it’s great that they were able to have success at the Tour du Maroc.”