UAE Team Emirates-XRG rider Julius Johansen claimed victory in the opening prologue of the Boucles de la Mayenne, securing the first leader’s jersey of the four-day race and delivering the team’s 34th win of the season.
The Danish rider produced an impressive performance in the 5.4-kilometre individual time trial, completing the course in six minutes and 36 seconds to record the fastest time among the 132-rider field.
Johansen’s victory marks his second professional win and follows his maiden career success in the prologue of O Gran Camiño earlier this season.
The win came after a dramatic evening for the Emirati squad. Teammates Benoît Cosnefroy and Ivo Oliveira both spent time at the top of the provisional standings before being overtaken by rival riders.
However, Johansen, who started among the final riders on the course, delivered a standout ride to edge out Jakob Söderqvist and take victory.
The result capped a strong opening day for UAE Team Emirates-XRG, with Cosnefroy finishing fourth and Oliveira sixth, giving the team a commanding presence in the early standings.
Speaking after the race, Johansen expressed his delight at securing another time-trial victory.
“Amazing to have another win. Apparently, I have found my TT again after many years. It is really nice to take another victory, and in a time trial again,” he said.
The Dane added that he was surprised by the result given the strength of the team and the quality of riders capable of winning such stages, but said the squad is now focused on maintaining its advantage and targeting further victories during the remaining stages.
UAE Team Emirates-XRG will carry the race lead into the first road stage on Friday as it looks to build on a successful start to the competition.
