Rui Costa close to victory

In the third stage of the Tour of Romandie, starting and finishing in Romont at 160 kilometers, former world champion Rui Costa finishes in second place.  He tried in the sprint, but was bettered by the young Frenchman David Gaudu (Groupama FDJ) who won his first season victory. But it was yet another good finish for the Portuguese cyclist who now sits in third place in the classification at 8″ from leader Roglic and 6″ from Gaudu.

 “I hesitated for a moment and Gaudu took it,” said Rui Costa. “I was in a good position but I didn’t make up my mind because I was waiting for someone to go.  Unfortunately my indecision went in favour of the strong Frenchman who did a great sprint.  I would have preferred to bring home the success, but at least I can see that my condition is good, and this will be very important in view of the big stage tomorrow.”

 Tomorrow the queen stage of this edition, from Lucens to Torgon, covers 176 kilometres for a total of 3456 metres climbing. Above all, the final 11.6 kilometers uphill should define the general classification before the final individual time trial.

Results third stage

1 David Gaudu (Fra) Groupama-FDJ3:50:53

2 Rui Costa (Por) UAE Team Emirates s.t.

3 Primoz Roglic (Slo) Team Jumbo-Visma s.t.

General classification after three stages

1 Primoz Roglic (Slo) Team Jumbo-Visma12:23:02

2 David Gaudu (Fra) Groupama-FDJ+6’’

3 Rui Costa (Por) UAE Team Emirates+8’’