The second mountain test of the UAE Tour proved far more convincing for David Gaudu this Saturday at the summit of Jebel Hafeet. At the end of Stage 6, following a well-managed climb, the Groupama-FDJ United rider secured a very solid ninth place, surrounded by the other contenders for the general classification. His first top 10 of the season — and another step in the right direction.
As was the case on Wednesday during the first summit finish at Jebel Mobrah, the day’s schedule for Stage 6 of the UAE Tour was quite straightforward: more than 150 kilometres on flat roads before the final ascent. This time, it was the traditional climb of Jebel Hafeet (10.6 km at 7%) that was on the riders’ menu. Before that, however, the start was quite lively, with nine riders managing to form the breakaway, including Johan Jacobs and Axel Huens for Groupama-FDJ United. “The plan was to go for the breakaway, and even though we knew it had little chance of succeeding, it was good to maintain good momentum, work towards what’s next, and prepare for other races where the break might have a better chance,” explained Stéphane Goubert. “Having two riders out of nine up there was perfect.” Although the Franco-Swiss duo, notably joined by Joshua Tarling, never enjoyed a significant advantage at the front of the race, they nevertheless kept the lead until the foot of the final climb, before feeling the effects of the gradients above 8%.
“It feels good” – David Gaudu
“Their presence at the front also allowed us to feed and cool David down at the bottom of the climb, especially as it was very hot today,” Stéphane continued. The peloton was gradually reduced, and halfway up the climb only around twenty riders remained in the favourites’ group. Still up there at that point, David Gaudu lost a few bike lengths when Isaac del Toro launched the decisive move shortly afterwards, but without completely cracking. “The goal was not to try to follow the very best at all costs, not to go above his limits, to manage the effort well and then fight it as if he was going for the win,” Stéphane added. At the finish, it resulted in a very encouraging ninth place, 48 seconds behind the Mexican stage winner, but only 12 seconds off the top five. “I had good legs, it feels good to be at this level again,” Gaudu said. “We keep moving forward, step by step,” Stéphane confirmed.
This Saturday, David Gaudu moved up two places in the general classification (18th overall), while a bunch sprint will bring the race to a close on Sunday.
