Highlights: Vingegaard clinches first Paris-Nice title despite being pipped to Stage 8 win
Video credit: TNT Sports
Jonas Vingegaard (Visma–Lease a Bike) finally won Paris-Nice for the first time in his career, and the Danish rider was “extremely happy” to claim his maiden triumph in the race.
The two-time Tour de France champion claimed the Paris-Nice title after finishing second in the final stage on Sunday.
He was pipped to the line by Lenny Martinez (Bahrain-Victorious), but was safe in the knowledge that he had done enough to clinch the general classification.
It is a huge boost at the start of another big season for the 29-year-old, who is targeting a double at the Giro d’Italia in May and Tour de France in July – both iconic races will be live on TNT Sports and HBO Max.
Vingegaard’s charge for the line was left slightly late after he and Martinez broke away on the final climb on the French Riviera, and the Dane was unable to catch Martinez.
“Today was almost a perfect day,” Vingegaard said. “But finally, I’m able to win Paris-Nice. It’s been the tough one for me, but I’m extremely happy to sit here in the yellow jersey today.”
Vingegaard finished four minutes and 23 seconds clear of Daniel Martinez (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe) in the overall standings to seal the title.
‘It means a lot’ – Vingegaard ‘really proud’ after first Paris-Nice win
Video credit: TNT Sports
Colombian Martinez crashed more than 50km from the finish and lost touch with the leading pack.
He fought through the pain in incredible fashion and managed to retain his second place in the general classification.
Vingegaard continued: “Of course I would have loved to win the stage, but Lenny was very strong, so he deserves to win today.
“It actually means a lot to me. It’s been the one that I just couldn’t get right. Now I finally get it right and that makes me extremely happy.
“It’s a good start to the year and something I’m really proud of.”
Vingegaard was forced to abandon Paris-Nice race last year after a crash, and his Visma team-mate Matteo Jorgenson was able to retain his title.
Vingegaard was asked if he plans to match Jorgenson’s tally of wins in the race, but admitted he was happy with just one.
“No, for sure not,” Vingegaard said. “I’m also happy when Matteo wins. I’m happy I’ve won this one and next year I can leave it to him again.
“For me, it’s just about racing. Trying to win the races that I’m doing. This was my first race of the year, and I’m just extremely happy with how everything went here.
“I think it’s very good at the moment. I do still think I can improve for the upcoming races. Hopefully I can do that, and especially for the Tour.”
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