Caleb Ewan was delivered perfectly by Lotto Soudal’s sprint train in the technical finale of the opening stage of Tour des Alpes Maritimes before powering away to victory.
Ewan outsprinted Anthony Turgis (TotalEnergies) and Nacer Bouhanni (Arkea-Samsic) as the Aussie enjoys the overall lead of the three-day stage race in southern France.
“We knew this stage was going to be a tough one and even for me, it was a bit of a mystery whether I would survive the climb or not,” reflected Ewan. “But I felt really good today and the team just did a great job. They controlled the race and protected me perfectly leading into and on the climb.
“Due to the steady pace, the attacks didn’t go far and going into the descent with around five of my teammates gave me that extra boost to finish it off.”
“I’ve already shown this season that I got stronger uphill and that I am still developing as a rider,” he said. “I am really happy with the shape I am in. It really was a successful test for what’s to come.”
