Cannondale Pro Cycling has collected another victory on the cobbles. Today, the team placed first and second at the first stage of Driedaagse De Panne (De Panne-Zottegem , 201 km). Peter Sagan claimed his fifth win of the season while Oscar Gatto came in just after the Slovak Champion.
Sagan’s victory was determined by a photo finish. It was a collaborative team goal to carry Gatto to win.
“I was just working for Oscar and my aim was to lead him out in the best way,” said Sagan. “I forced the pace at 10 km to select the group and have less contenders for him in the finale. In the sprint I pushed hard and then moved to the right to let him pass. I really thought he was coming back”.
“I’m happy that the team took another victory, but at the same time I’m sorry for Oscar. My teammates did great work to help me and many times people don’t see this on TV. Today I had the chance to pay back their efforts and I wanted to race as domestique – this is the only pity in another great day for Cannondale Pro Cycling,” added Sagan.
The true feeling among the riders today is also highlighted by Oscar Gatto, “Peter apologized to me many times, but he didn’t need to. All together we did a bold performance and we deserved to win. We are a strong team and tight-knit group and I’m happy to continue to work for Peter in future.”
Tomorrow at the second day of Driedaagse De Panne, Zottegem-Koksijde, Sagan will be at the start with the GC leader jersey.