Lidl-Trek’s Mads Pedersen won the first stage of the Tour de la Provence. Despite a challenging race, marked by adverse weather conditions. Pedersen won for the second time in a row, as he also won the opening time trial.
Time was recorded 5 km before official arrival
The first stage of the Tour de la Provence covered the route from Aix-en-Provence to Martigues. Along the 157.2 km route, the cyclists encountered two significant challenges: a second-category climb and a third-category climb.
However, due to unstable weather, the race organizers decided to record the times for the general classification five km before the finish line. This was done to reduce the risk of a sprint with a full peloton.
Pedersen’s performance
Despite the difficult conditions, Pedersen showed determination and ability to overcome his opponents by crossing the finish line ahead of Alex Zingle (Cofidis) and Samuel Watson (Grupama-FDJ).
Although the time was measured five kilometers earlier, Pedersen maintained a sufficient margin to remain in the lead in the general classification. Thus, he will start tomorrow’s race with the leader’s shirt.
Watch the arrival
Results of the 1st Stage of the Tour de la Provence
General classification after the 1st stage
