Birthday boy Elia Viviani (Quick-Step Floors) won Stage 2 of the 2018 Dubai Tour, from Skydive Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah (190km), in a bunch sprint.
At the finish line he snatched victory from Dylan Groenewegen (Team Lotto NL – Jumbo), who remains in the lead of the overall General Classification. Third across the line was Astana’s Riccardo Minali.
Speaking seconds after the stage finish, Italy’s Viviani, who celebrated a win alongside his 29th birthday, said: “Having my birthday today added to my motivation. Losing yesterday was also good for my head.
“Overnight we felt like we missed one chance that would never be given back. I feel I’m in good condition and have the legs for winning. I had a mechanical (issue) but luckily it was with 20km to go and I had time to come back.
“With 500m to go, my lead out man Fabio Sabatini closed the gap. I chose (Alexander) Kristoff’s wheel. I saw Groenewegen coming back with 50 meters but finally the line was in the right place for me to win. I’m pretty happy.”
GC leader and blue Jersey wearer Groenewegen said: “It’s very hard to come only second today after winning yesterday. I had mechanical problems with my first bike, and also with the second 1.5km before the finish.
“That’s how I lost my sprint train and I came very late to the front for sprinting. The only good point for today is that I’m still in the lead of the overall classification but I wanted to win the stage.”
LEADERS
Blue Jersey, sponsored by the Commercial Bank of Dubai (General Classification) – Dylan Groenewegen (Team Lotto NL – Jumbo)
Red Jersey, sponsored by Emirates (Points) – Dylan Groenewegen (Team Lotto NL – Jumbo)
White Jersey, sponsored by RTA – Roads and Transport Authority (Best Young Rider) – Dylan Groenewegen (Team Lotto NL – Jumbo)
UAE Flag Jersey, sponsored by DHA – Dubai Health Authority (Intermediate Sprints) – Nathan Van Hooydonck (BMC Racing Team)
THURSDAY’S STAGE
Stage 3 – Dubai Silicon Oasis Stage (180km)
From Skydive Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah
Start: 11.05
Finish: Approx 15.05