Pogačar 2nd and retains lead on Jebel Jais

The fifth stage of the UAE Tour ended with Tadej Pogačar coming home in close second, behind Vingegaard (Team Jumbo-Visma), on the mountainous finish of Jebel Jais.

The twenty-two year old race leader was well protected and helped by the whole Emirati team during the 170 km of today’s stage, managing to be ready in the quick finish that saw the men in the standings fight until the last meters.

With this result Pogačar now holds the red jersey for the leader of the general classification, green jersey for the points classification as well as the white jersey for best young rider.
The team will now aim to defend the race lead heading into the last two stages dedicated to sprinters.

 
Pogačar: “The last few kilometers we had a lot of attacks to control. My aim was to stay focused and keep an eye on the other guys in the GC to defend the red jersey. The finish was very fast, so well done to Vingegaard on his win. I am happy for my second place today. There are still two important stages in which we must stay focused and aim to bring home the result”.

The penultimate stage scheduled for tomorrow will start and finish in Dubai: 168 km flat with a final sprint at Palm Jumeirah Island.

Results 4th stage:
1. Jonas Vingegaard (Team Jumbo-Visms) 4h19’03”
2.Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) +3″
3.Adam Yates (INEOS Granadiers) +3″

General classification after the 4th stage:
1.Tadej Pogaćar (UAE Team Emirartes) 17h09’26”
2.Adam Yates (INEOS Granadiers) +45″
3.João Almeida (Deceuninck – Quick Step) +1’12″