The powerful Italian came out on top in a hectic bunch sprint to Fujairah on stage four of the UAE Tour, taking his third win of the season
You can count on Jonny Milan to bounce back. Despite the heavy heat of the desert, the nervous, last-minute catch of the breakaway and the road rash remaining from his crash on the opening stage, there was nothing that could stop the flying, powerhouse Italian from taking victory on stage four of the UAE Tour.
It was a long day for the sprinters’ teams chasing a strong breakaway of five riders who were out front for the entirety of the 182-kilometre stage. Despite a valiant effort, the break was caught in the last hundred meters in the run into Fujairah, swallowed up by the jaws of hungry lead-out trains.
Milan stayed calm alongside his teammates during the final kilometers and was guided safely to a perfect position to launch his sprint by Simone Consonni. The 25-year-old waited patiently and when the moment came, Milan shot out of the front of the bunch in his trademark style, unleashing a long, unparalleled sprint which saw him win the stage convincingly. A masterclass in perseverance, patience and power.
"My teammates were there and did a fantastic job to always keep me in the first positions and delivered me in a good way. I just had to sprint, I’m really happy with my performance."
Photo by Tim de Waele/Getty Images
Photo by Tim de Waele/Getty Images
In the winner's words
“I have to say the truth, yes [I had doubts the breakaway would be caught]. We knew that this breakaway was extremely strong, we always kept them around two minutes, three minutes during the race. I have to say that my guys were really strong to keep them under control, they did really big work, a super strong effort from them and I have to thank them like always.
After one kilometer to go and there I was a bit more relaxed I have to say, but in a sprint you’re never too relaxed. We knew it would be a bit stressful as a last kilometer with this big straight always has a bit of a washing machine [effect], it would be tough to all stay together. My teammates were also there and did a fantastic job to always keep me in the first positions and delivered me in a good way. I just had to sprint, I’m really happy with my performance.
I’m really happy also for him [brother Matteo, 3rd]. I knew that he could do really well. Just after the finish line he told me he was third. For me I was even more happy, but I’m glad he didn’t beat me today. Maybe one day he will be there! I’m happy for my victory and for his first top-three in a World Tour race.”
