His Vuelta could not start better for Jasper Philipsen. He won the opening stage with force majeure, and so, just like in the last Tour de France, was immediately allowed to take the leader’s jersey. But furthermore it has not been much for the Kempenaar.
Also read:
Philipsen knocked in Vuelta-Sprint, Turner takes surprising stage victory
Schaarse Opportunities
Also does not have to be surprised. The course is Philipsen – and actually all sprinters – not exactly favorable. On the second day, there was a lot of climbing, something we have done for a few days now. In between there was also a team time trial.
On day 3 there were still a few sprinters left, but Philipsen was no longer there. In the fourth ride he then had an excellent chance of stage win, but doubting for too long did Ben Turner to benefit from Ineos.
Exercise near?
On Saturday, there is probably a new chance for Philipsen and the Pure Sprinters. Immediately also the last chance for our countryman? According to Patrick Broe, co-host of the Podcast Lanterne Rouge and also on board in the sporty cell of Visma-Lease a Bike, it is already.
“I think Philipsen will give up on the first day of rest,” says it in the podcast with full conviction. And that first day of rest is customary on Monday after the second weekend. With the start of the school year, Philipsen would return home, at least according to Broe.
He also sees some nice opportunities for the Alpecin-DEceuninck rider this season. “He can still drive the Super 8 Classics and Paris tour,” it says. Then it is time for Philipsen again for rest, afterwards to build up towards 2026.
