Tour of Germany - Pascal Ackermann showcases sprint endurance to claim opening stage

ByRichard Newman

Updated 26/08/2021 at 15:24 GMT

The Bora–Hansgrohe rider went early and won by just under a length ahead of Phil Bauhaus and Marco Haller, but Britain's Mark Cavendish was unable to challenge. A number of sprinters were caught out with just over 1km to go, and were not able to get past a crash to get themselves into contention for a win.

Pascal Ackermann started his home Tour of Germany by taking a superb sprint victory in the opening stage.

With less than 1km to go, the Bora–Hansgrohe rider hit the afterburners and through gritted teeth, held off fellow German Phil Bauhaus and Austria's Marco Haller, both of whom represent Team Bahrain Victorious.

Britain's Mark Cavendish was not able to ride himself into contention, while a number of sprinters were caught behind a crash in the closing stages.

Cycling

Cavendish set to return from illness at Tour of Turkey as Tour de France preparation continues

18/04/2024 at 08:42

Number of riders caught up in crash just over 2km from the finish line

The first stage lasted 191km, finishing in the picturesque setting of Schwerin Castle.

Ackermann will wear the leaders' red jersey for the second stage, which starts fairly flat before a finish on an incline.

The German sprinter has already confirmed that he will joined UAE Emirates for the 2022 season.

• 'He was pee'd off' - Did Roglic 'whack' Mas to win Stage 11?
• 'What a blow' - Roglic, Yates involved in Stage 12 crash
• Opinion: Magnificent Magnus caught at the death by ruthless Roglic in Stage 11

Tirreno - Adriatico

Bauhaus wins Stage 3 as Philipsen crashes in chaotic finish

06/03/2024 at 16:40

Tour de France

'I had no option!' - The men hoping to guide Cavendish to record 35th Tour de France win

27/02/2024 at 11:33

UAE Tour

Cavendish pulls out of UAE Tour due to illness

24/02/2024 at 14:00