Dan Martin (UAE Team Emirates) sealed his place in the top 10 at the Tour de France today as he finished 2’40” behind stage winner Tom Dumoulin (Team Sunweb) on the 31-kilometre individual time-trial between Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle and Espelette.
In addition to maintaining his 8th position overall ahead of tomorrow’s procession through Paris, Martin rounded off his Tour by being awarded the Super Combativity prize for his aggressive, attacking style over three weeks of punishing racing.
He was among eight riders shortlisted for the award, which was then decided by a public vote and jury deliberations. The title is a prestigious one and will be rewarded by a trip to the podium in Paris tomorrow – the first ever for a UAE rider on the Champs Elysees.
Commenting on the award, Martin said: “I honestly can’t believe I’ve been given the super combativity prize. I really wanted to be on the podium in Paris but I didn’t think I’d do it this way – especially as I haven’t taken the prize on any of the stages. But it’s an honour and I’m speechless”.
Reflecting on the Tour he added: “It’s been an incredibly memorable Tour for me. It means so much, especially taking the first ever stage victory for UAE Team Emirates. Part of the reason I came to the team was to help create a legacy. It has been the mission of the team from the very beginning to bring cycling to the people of the UAE and to inspire the next generation of cyclists. That’s always been a passion of mine so it’s great to know that the cycling community has been glued to the TV watching us perform in France. It’s just unbelievable”.
Stage 21 signals the final day of racing as they ride from Houilles to the Champs Elysees in Paris. The 116km flat route will act as a procession for Martin and his GC rivals, whose race was decided today. However, the last stage provides one more chance for the sprinters to earn themselves a podium finish.
