Wind creates drama in Paris-Nice: multiple top riders in trouble

Before the start of the fourth stage of Paris-Nice, wind splits were already anticipated, and this has indeed materialized. Several top riders are currently reported to be in trouble.

During the first 115 kilometers of the fourth stage, the riders face predominantly crosswinds. This is the perfect setup for echelon formations, so nerves were high right from the start. This proved justified, as the peloton quickly broke into several groups.

Four large echelons quickly formed. GC leader Juan Ayuso and his (on paper) biggest challenger Jonas Vingegaard were alert, as they are spotted in the front group, along with INEOS Grenadiers team leader Oscar Onley.

INEOS Grenadiers riders lead peloton in wet conditions during Paris-Nice stage

Cycling peloton racing through rain on wet rural road during Paris-Nice stage 4

Echelon formation during Paris-Nice cycling race on wet road with peloton racing in rain

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For the other leader of the British team, Kévin Vauquelin, the situation looks far less promising. The third-placed rider in the GC was caught off guard and is forced to chase. The same goes for another French GC hopeful, Lenny Martinez.

The gap between the front echelon of about forty riders and the first chasing group has now grown to more than a minute. Meanwhile, the first live footage is still awaited. HBO Max will only switch on at 15:10.