UAE Team Emirates maintained a high, consistent pace during Stage 9 of the Tour de France to neutralize potential attacks from general classification contenders, according to team manager Mauro Gianetti. Despite speculation from fans, the team’s objective was never to chase down the day’s breakaway, but rather to prevent unpredictable racing dynamics that could threaten their position, as reported by In de Leiderstrui and the NOS.
Strategic Control vs. Pursuit Tactics
Throughout the stage, UAE Team Emirates remained at the front of the peloton, a move that fueled rumors they were hunting for another stage win. Gianetti clarified that the team’s high tempo was a defensive measure. “Every time we slowed the pace, other teams started attacking,” Gianetti stated. “There were general classification riders within minutes of the lead, and we wanted to discourage those moves.”
The team’s decision to keep the pressure on was intended to maintain order. By keeping the gap to the breakaway at a manageable distance, they avoided the chaos of multiple counter-attacks. According to Gianetti, the team actually found the composition of the breakaway “perfect” and never intended to close the final minute of the gap.
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Managing Energy Expenditure in the Peloton
Tim Wellens, a key rider for UAE Team Emirates, confirmed that the team’s workload was more strategic than grueling. Speaking to the NOS, Wellens noted that only he and teammate Felix Grossschartner were tasked with pulling at the front for the majority of the stage.
“I prefer riding hard on the climbs where everyone is struggling rather than riding slowly all day,” Wellens explained. He noted that the team avoided the final 40 kilometers of flat, headwind-heavy terrain, which would have been far more taxing.
Shifting Dynamics in Modern Grand Tours
As reported by Gianetti, once the breakaway gap reached 90 seconds, other teams like INEOS and Lidl-Trek eventually took over the pursuit, allowing UAE Team Emirates to step back and focus on recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did UAE Team Emirates stay at the front if they didn’t want to win?
According to Mauro Gianetti, it was a defensive tactic to prevent dangerous attacks from GC rivals who were still within striking distance.
Was the high pace physically exhausting for the team?
Tim Wellens stated that it was actually efficient. By setting a steady tempo, they avoided the much harder work of chasing down late-race attacks in the final 30 to 40 kilometers.
Did other teams contribute to the chase?
Yes. Once the breakaway gap was established, INEOS and Lidl-Trek eventually took over the pursuit duties, allowing UAE Team Emirates to drop back and recover.
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