Critérium du Dauphiné Winner Primoz Roglic Triumphs After Nail-Biting Finish
Updated 10/06/2024 at 00:15 GMT+2
For Primoz Roglic, winning a World Tour stage race is a habit he had lost. With 9 previous victories in these events, he had been waiting almost 15 months to secure the 10th. This finally happened after a thrilling final stage on the Dauphiné where he almost lost it all, showcasing one of his biggest flaws that he can’t seem to shake off.
Roglic managed to save his yellow jersey by 8 seconds, a feat that surprised no one as he crossed the finish line at the Plateau des Glières with a big smile. This victory marked his second win at the prestigious Critérium du Dauphiné, despite the final stage not following the same script as the previous ones. However, once again, the ending could have been less joyful for him.
Reflecting on his win, Roglic described it as “completely crazy” considering the recent events. Despite some setbacks like a minor fall in the Basque Country and a similar incident in France, Roglic was satisfied with the outcome. With the final victory and two stage wins, it was undeniably a positive week for him.
Throughout the race, Roglic’s teammates worked tirelessly to support him, with Vlasov, Hindley, and Jungels playing crucial roles. Despite facing challenges, Roglic’s strategic approach of accumulating small gains paid off as he took control of the race in the mountains, securing vital bonus seconds in the process.
Known for his reserved racing style, Roglic’s power in the final stages of the race allowed him to maintain his overall lead. However, his cautious approach can also be a double-edged sword, as seen in his reluctance to take risks that could potentially lead to losing it all.
Roglic’s triumph at the Critérium du Dauphiné highlights his consistent performance and strategic mindset, setting the stage for his upcoming challenges, including the Tour de France. While some may question his tactics, Roglic remains true to his racing style, hoping to build on his recent success in future competitions.
In conclusion, Roglic’s victory at the Critérium du Dauphiné showcases his resilience and determination, cementing his status as a formidable contender in the world of competitive cycling.
