Molano Claims Opening Stage Victory at CRO Race for UAE Team Emirates-XRG
Colombian sprinter Sebastián Molano delivered an emphatic performance to secure Stage 1 of the six-day CRO Race in Croatia, capitalising on exemplary team support to edge out formidable competition.
Sebastián Molano provided UAE Team Emirates-XRG with an auspicious beginning to the CRO Race, demonstrating compelling form to triumph on the opening stage of this prestigious six-day Croatian cycling event. The 167-kilometre stage from Split to Seget Donji witnessed a commanding display of tactical teamwork that culminated in the Colombian’s impressive victory.
Competing from Tuesday, 22 September through Sunday, 27 September, the CRO Race represents one of Europe’s most significant stage racing competitions. Molano’s triumph on the opening day, achieved through an extended sprint commencing approximately 300 metres from the finish line, proved decisive against Paul Magnier of Soudal Quick-Step, with Tim Torn Teutenberg of Lidl-Trek completing the podium positions.
The stage unfolded with characteristic intensity as a quartet comprising Sam Maisonobe, Gabriele Raccagni, Mihael Štajnar and Mateusz Kostański established a decisive breakaway, building an advantage of roughly two minutes whilst the main peloton exercised measured control. The subsequent developments witnessed UAE Team Emirates-XRG orchestrating a measured chase, with Nils contributing substantial efforts before Rui Oliveira executed a superlative lead-out in the closing moments.
Molano’s victory represents his second career stage success at the CRO Race and grants him possession of the first leader’s jersey. Reflecting upon his triumph, the Colombian acknowledged the collective excellence that enabled his success, particularly praising Oliveira’s positioning work. His extended sprint from 300 metres demonstrated both tactical maturity and physical dominance, ultimately securing the day’s honours despite aggressive late pressure from his principal challenger.
The triumph establishes advantageous momentum for the UAE Team Emirates-XRG contingent as attention turns to Stage 2, a 114.5-kilometre progression from Biograd na Moru to Novalja anticipated to provide further opportunities for sprinting specialists. The team’s demonstration of cohesive performance suggests promising prospects for both stage honours and general classification ambitions throughout the remainder of the week’s competition in Croatia.
Source: WAM