Our rider remains in contention for a podium finish at the World Tour event.
The two longest climbs at this year’s Tour de Pologne – Przelecz and Zieleniec – featured on the 163.3km stage three between Walbrzych and Duszniki-Zdroj, but they didn’t have an impact on the fight for victory, which unfolded in the last 300 meters of the short but steep uphill finish more suited to those having some punch.
For the second consecutive day, Ilan Van Wilder was there for Soudal Quick-Step, concluding in the same time as winner Rafal Majka (UAE Team Emirates), just outside the podium. It was the Belgian’s eleventh top 10 finish of the season, and a result that helped him keep his place in the first five of the general classification ahead of what should be a much calmer stage four, at the end of which the sprinters should be in the spotlight.
“Today it was important to be in the top 10-15, both on the last downhill and at the start of the climb, and thanks to the team I was in a good position. But then, in the closing kilometer, everybody began attacking and I found myself a bit stuck and couldn’t really go when I wanted to. On the other hand, fourth and the fact that I came with the others without losing any time is a good result”, said Ilan after the stage.
Photo credit: ©Dario Belingheri / Getty Images
