Just watched the finale. What I don't really get is all the griping about MVDP's attacks. I mean, I get it. Yes, he might have lost the stage because he attacked with 4k or whatever it was, and it was a bit of a long shot. But my take on that is THANK THE CYCLING GODS that we have attacking racing! Is he "dumb" to have attacked? NO! There were attacks going on all around, and so many great riders were attacking, including GC guys and old farts! It's such a blessing after years of teams like Postal, Sky, and even Jumbo grinding GT racing into the ground, to have this kind of course and these kind of riders. I'm so glad for this generation that just goes out there and races to win, a generation that takes risks, takes chances, and makes the sport fun to watch.
Incredible sustained speed and power from Girmay. Remarkable. A fantastic win against a great field on a beautiful course full of opportunities. Wonderful. And loved MVDP's thumbs up salute. Made it all the more worthwhile to have an ATTACKING champion like him tip the hat.
Wonderful stage.