With more than 3000m of elevation stage two of the Criérium du Dauphiné was already a real test for the riders. Especially the last climbs before the finish in Sauges within the last 20 kilometers offered a launchpad for attacks. With Lukas Pöstlberger also today BORA – hansgrohe was present in the break of the day. Ineos controlled the race early with Bahrain joining the chase with about 50km to go while at the front Lukas and S. Archbold remained in the lead until the very final of the stage. It was Lukas who went on his own on the last 20 kilometers, gritting his teeth to hold off an accelerating bunch. With an impressive performance Lukas made it to the line, taking the stage and the overall race lead.
Results
01 L. Pöstlberger 4:25:20
02 S. Colbrelli +0:11
03 A. Valverde +0:11
From the Finish Line
“I knew my shape is really good after my last training camp. When I received the performance plan of the race two weeks ago, I already had in mind to go for it at one of the first two stages. There are not many sprinters here and therefore, it is a little easier for breakaways to survive. I really suffered a lot the last 6 kilometers, but I did it. It is an incredible feeling to grab a stage win here and almost unbelievable to start tomorrow’s stage in Yellow. I already look forward to that, it is one of my biggest successes for sure.” – Lukas Pöstlberger
“That was a remarkable performance from Lukas. Actually, the gap was never really big and therefore even harder to make it to the line. Lukas had the legs, but he also did everything right. He didn’t go too early, neither too late. Huge congrats! Also the sixth place from Patrick is really strong and Wilco was without any problems in the first group as well. All in all, a perfect day I would say.” – Enrico Poitschke, Sports Director
