Trofeo Playa de Palma - Palma
The Trofeo Playa de Palma - Palma, the final event of the 33rd Garden Hotels-Luxcom Challenge de Mallorca, concluded with a stunning victory by Belgian cyclist Gerben Thijssen of the Intermarché-Wanty team. Completing the race in 3 hours, 9 minutes, and 11 seconds, Thijssen showcased his exceptional sprinting skills to triumph over Alexander Kristoff (Uno-X Mobility) and Marijn van den Berg (EF Education-EasyPost), who finished second and third respectively.
A crucial breakaway formed early in the race, with Spanish cyclists Diego Uriarte (Kern Pharma) and Joan Albert Riera (Illes Balears-Arabay) among the six riders leading the charge. The peloton, maintaining control, caught up to the breakaway 29 kilometers before the finish line. As the race entered the urban circuit of Palma, the sprinters' teams geared up for the final showdown.
The race's final stretch, marked by intense competition, saw teams like Bora Hansgrohe, Soudal-Quick Step, UnoX, Tudor, and Arkea B&B battling for position. Thijssen, utilizing his powerful sprint, emerged victorious in the final kilometer. The race was also notable for Joan Albert Riera's impressive performance, earning him accolades for his climbing and combativeness.