The Italian champion celebrated a dominant sprint victory after Lidl-Trek controlled the much of the 234km opening stage.
Jonathan Milan made an immediate impact in his first race wearing the Italian national champion’s jersey, storming to victory on Stage 1 of the Tour de Pologne after a powerful bunch sprint in Koszalin.
The opening stage covered 234 kilometres from Gdynia to Koszalin, making it the longest stage of this year’s race. Despite nearly 2,000 metres of climbing, including the late ascent of Góra Chełmska inside the final kilometres, the peloton regrouped to set up a sprint finish
An early breakaway animated much of the day, but with the sprint teams committed to bringing the race back together, the escapees were reeled in before the finale. The late climb briefly stretched the bunch, yet the fast men remained in contention as the race hurtled towards Koszalin.
The Lidl-Trek boys expertly positioned Milan through the hectic run-in, allowing the Italian to unleash his trademark long-range sprint. Jonny proved untouchable in the final metres to take the stage victory and the first leader’s jersey of the race. The victory is a particularly special one for Milan, marking the first win of his reign as Italian national champion and a memorable debut in the tricolore jersey.
From Jonny..
It was really special to race with this new jersey. We started today all really committed to bringing home a nice result. We know that it would be tough because the parcours was really really hilly. I have to say, the breakaway was super strong, but the guys here, they did a fantastic job, not giving them too many minutes. They had them always under control.
Of course, we had help from other teams, but then, you know, in the final, they also delivered me really well and into a perfect position. It was not easy at all to stick all together, but I think it went very well. I know that the timing of all this, when I had to start the sprint, was perfect because I couldn't start too early because we would have this little kick, 200 metres to go, so couldn't start too early and not too late. Today everything really was perfect and a good sign for the coming days.
(Photo by Luc Claessen/Getty Images)
