Hirschi takes overall Czech Tour title

Marc Hirschi showed poise to take home the overall victory at the Czech Tour today on stage 4 from Šumperk to Šternberk (131.8km).

Hirschi got away with Julian Alaphilippe (Soudal Quickstep) with the duo having a cagey battle on the run-in as the group behind swelled. Alaphilippe would prove the quickest in the dash to the line but Hirschi could savour second place on the stage safe in the knowledge he had the overall title in his grasp.

Diego Ulissi was close behind in second place overall followed by Colombian Sergio Higuita (Red Bull – Bora).

Hirschi: “I’m so happy to take the win here. The team raced really well all week and we showed how strong we are also with Diego on the podium. Today was a tough finishing circuit and I knew I just had to follow any dangerous moves and try and keep things under control for the GC. Alaphilippe did a smart sprint so chapeau to him. The form is very good and I hope to take it into the remaining goals of the year.”