André Greipel snatched his second stage win of the week at the OVO Energy Tour of Britain as he reigned supreme in Royal Leamington Spa. The Lotto Soudal rider headed home Sacha Modolo (Team EF Education First Drapac p/b Cannondale) and OVO Energy Green Jersey wearer Patrick Bevin (BMC Racing Team), who extended his lead at the top of the standings by virtue of his four-second time bonus on the line.
Greipel’s win, coming at the end of a 183.5-kilometre stage that started in Nuneaton, was his seventh in Tour of Britain race history.
"The guys worked really well to keep me upfront, especially Jasper de Buyst again," said Greipel."My aim was to go full gas from the final corner, even though it was 300m from line – I knew that I could make it. I’m happy with another win.
A six-rider break was the main feature of the stage, with Madison Genesis’ Matt Holmes taking out all three Eisberg Sprints to move into the red jersey, while Nicholas Dlamini (Team Dimension Data) retook the SKODA King of the Mountains jersey from his team-mate Scott Davies.
The final remnants of the group were reeled in on the fast approach to Leamington Spa to set up a thrilling sprint finish, with Greipel taking a comfortable victory ahead of Modolo, and overall contender Bevin.
