Hirschi fights to podium spot in Luxembourg opener

Marc Hirschi had a promising start to the Tour de Luxembourg with the former under-23 World Champion taking 3rd place in the 140km stage in and around Luxembourg City.

The Emirati team were present at the head of affairs with Davide Formolo pushing hard on the front of the peloton to chase down lone leader Jack Bauer (BikeExchange) who was pulled back inside the last 3km.

Hirschi was to the fore of the group as they entered the last corner with 300m to go, just getting slightly obstructed as he opened up on the right hand side of the road as Joao Almeida (Deceuninck-QuickStep) came through for the win.

Hirschi now sits 3rd overall heading into stage 2 from Steinfort to Eschdorf (186.1km).

Hirschi : “Today was a really hard day : up and down roads with two big climbs towards the end which were hectic as guys fought to get into position. We covered all the attacks and in the end we were 20-30 riders left for a sprint. I’m pleased with 3rd today and we will look for more opportunities as the week goes on.”

Stage 1 Results & GC

1.Joao Almeida (Deceuninck-Quickstep) 3:16:09
2.Bauke Mollema (Trek-Segafredo) s.t
3.Marc Hirschi (UAE Team Emirates) s.t