Cycling: Tadej Pogacar has defended his title in the Tour of Lombardy. The Slovenian won the “Race of Falling Leaves” in a sprint duel ahead of Spaniard Enric Mas.
Pogacar sprints to defend title
Also thanks to a strong team effort Tadej pogacar (UAE) won the 116th Tour of Lombardy. When he went up the last climb, he still had three helpers at his side. They controlled the pace and finally prepared their captain's attack. When this came, not many opponents could follow suit. Only drove over the last crest Enric Mas Nicolau (Movistar) on its rear wheel. together it was possible Mikel Landa (Bahrain – Victorious) to hang out and keep at a distance. In the sprint for victory, the Spaniard Mas had to admit that he had no chance against the Slovenian Pogacar. Nevertheless, he can be happy because, like his compatriot Landa, he is standing on the podium of a monument for the first time.
Valverde strong, Nibali without a chance
Unfortunately, the two old masters were not able to fight for victory after 253 kilometers Alejandro Valverde (Movistar) and Vincenzo Nibali (Astana). While the Spaniard still crossed the line in sixth place and only just missed making the leap to the front, the Italian has to admit that he was no longer able to keep up with the best. Nibali eventually finished 24th. At the end of the season, 42-year-old Valverde and 37-year-old Nibali end their long and successful careers.
Victoria de Tadej Pogacar en #ilombardia segundo Mas, tercero Landa pic.twitter.com/pKnnio1cYd
— Aleix Serra (@chiodi17) October 8, 2022