Italy's Jonathan Milan prevailed in a tight sprint to claim Thursday's wind-battered UAE Tour fourth stage with Tadej Pogacar retaining the leader's red jersey.
Milan added to his opening day success, edging out Belgian duo Tim Merlier and Jasper Philipsen at the line.
How close was that? 🤯🤏🏼
— Velon CC (@VelonCC) February 20, 2025
Jonathan Milan launched a long, powerful sprint to cap off an incredible effort by @LidlTrek, holding off Merlier and Philipsen to win Stage 4 of the 2025 @uae_tour.
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🇦🇪 #UAETour pic.twitter.com/GkpaoYNhWb
Pogacar, who won Wednesday's third stage, remained in command of the general classification after the 181km ride from Fujairah Qidfa Beach to Umm al Quwain.
Lidl-Trek rider Milan will be hoping to add another win in Friday's sprinter-friendly 160km fifth stage.
The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the top sprinters around and will be one to watch in next month's Milan-SanRemo one-day classic.
"It's true that this type of race is very important for the classics," Milan noted.
"It was windy today so in terms of position and managing the nerves it will help to gain experience," he added.
Pogacar remains 18 seconds clear of Briton Josh Tarling in the general classification, with Spain's Pablo Castrillo placed third at 23sec.