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Jonas Vingegaard claims maiden Paris-Nice title

BBC Sport •
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Jonas Vingegaard secured his first Paris-Nice victory Sunday after outlasting a late surge by Lenny Martinez in the final stage. The two-time Tour de France champion finished second on the day but held a 4 minutes 23 seconds lead over Daniel Martinez, clinching the title as the Colombian slipped after a crash with 50km remaining. Frenchman Lenny Martinez edged Vingegaard in the sprint finish but couldn’t close the gap in the general classification. Harold Tejada, winner of stage six, finished third, seven seconds behind Vingegaard. The Allianz Riviera hosted the 145km finale after Saturday’s shortened stage due to snow, with clear conditions aiding Vingegaard’s tactical dominance.

Vingegaard’s Paris-Nice title comes ahead of his ambitions for a Giro d'Italia and Tour de France double in May and July. Despite trailing Martinez late in the race, the Dane’s earlier breakaway control ensured victory. Martinez’s late attack on the final climb highlighted his form but proved insufficient against Vingegaard’s lead.

The race’s volatile weather disrupted plans, with stage seven’s summit finish abandoned due to snow. Sunday’s improved conditions allowed decisive moves, though Vingegaard’s team neutralized threats early. Martinez’s sprint victory added luster to the event but couldn’t alter the title outcome.

Vingegaard’s cycling achievements now include a Grand Tour stage win and Paris-Nice glory, solidifying his status as a Tour de France contender. His Giro and Tour double bid faces challenges, but this win signals strong form. Tejada’s third-place finish underscores his consistency, while Martinez’s resurgence marks him as a rising threat.