Pogačar 2nd on Jebel Hafeet

Tadej Pogačar had his first test on the climbs on stage 3 of the UAE Tour from Al Qudra Cycle Track to Jebel Hafeet (184k), placing 2nd on the uphill finish to Jebel Hafeet behind winner Adam Yates (Mitchelton Scott).

Yates attacked the favourites group with less than 5km to go with Pogačar giving chase but unable to claw the English rider back before the line. Diego Ulissi and Davide Formolo kept close guard in the group of favourites behind for the Emirati squad, to finish 6th and 12th respectively.

Pogačar now moves up to second overall and wears the white jersey as the leader of the young rider classification.

Stage 4 tomorrow will see the race return to the flatlands as the riders go from Zabeel Park to Dubai City Walk (173k) which could see the chance of crosswinds.

Pogačar : “It was extremely hot today, so for me on a climb like that in those temperatures it was a really good ride and I’m pleased. There is still three stages with another big mountain stage and the chance of crosswinds tomorrow so it’s not over yet. We have a strong team here so we will try something for sure.”

Stage 3 results

1.Adam Yates (Mitchelton Scott) 4h42’43’’
2.Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) +1’03’’
3. Alexey Lutsenko (Astana) +1’30’’

 
General Classification after stage 3

1.Adam Yates (Mitchelton Scott) 12h30’02’’
2.Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) +1’07’’
3. Alexey Lutsenko (Astana) +1’35’’