Edvald Boasson Hagen (Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka) returns to the Tour des Fjords as defending champion and following on from his podium finish in the general classification at the Tour of Norway on Sunday, the Norwegian will be looking to replicate his previous success at the race.
The race has been shortened to three stages that will no doubt provide some fast, action-packed racing. The three stages run along the Norwegian coast, with two slightly uphill finishes, that will suit our Norwegian rider. Today’s opening mainly flat stage is 191 kilometres from Lindesnes to Grimstad.
Boasson Hagen was dominant in last year’s race, winning three stages in addition to the GC. Dries Van Gestel (Sport Vlaanderen – Baloise) finished second overall and Timo Roosen (Team LottoNL-Jumbo) was third.
Lining up alongside Boasson Hagen are Nic Dougall, Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier, Reinardt Janse van Rensburg, Merhawi Kudus and Johann van Zyl. The startlist includes ten World Tour teams.
“The Tour des Fjords is the second of two races in Norway,” said Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka Sports Director Gino van Oudenhove. “The level will be higher as in Tour of Norway, with 10 World Tour teams at the start. However this will not change our ambitions with Edvald as our captain. It will be a hard and hectic race with only three days. The scenery will be spectacular, as will the racing.”
Team Dimension Data for Qhubeka Line-up for the Tour des Fjords
Edvald Boasson Hagen
Nic Dougall
Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier
Reinardt Janse van Rensburg
Merhawi Kudus
Johann van Zyl
