Ullisi takes the queen stage, Pogačar stays in green

4th stage of the 27th Tour of Slovenia was amazing in all of its glory – with the demanding route, excellent fans and of course, with the great battle on the climb to Sveta Gora. Italian Diego Ulissi (UAE Team Emirates) – last winner of Slovenian tour – won the stage ahead of teammate Tadej Pogačar and Matteo Sobrero (Astana – Premier Tech).

Queen stage from Ajdovščina to Nova Gorica / Sveta Gora has treated us with amazing racing, the only thing missing was a stronger attack from the green jersey holder, Tadej Pogačar. Racing atmosphere grew over the five categorized climbs, all the way to its climax – final 2 kilometers of the steep climb to Sveta Gora. Breakaway group was caught long before that, and only a small group of riders showed their intentions to challenge Pogačar or just hold on. Four cyclists were left in the front, three later winners and Rafal Majka. Majka was dropped about 400 m to go, and the remaining trio stayed on the same pace untill about 100 m mark. At that point Ulissi attacked, Sobrero answered and Pogačar covered. We'll never know if Tadej could have taken it or not, but one thing is for sure – it was a great day for UAE Team Emirates.

“Victory came in the perfect timing, they will now have to consider me as a serious contender for the Tokyo selection,” explained Ulissi, who always likes to race in Slovenia.

Tadej was also satisfied with the outcome, he’d confirmed his lead and can go towards Novo mesto with ease. “Today’s stage was great for us, this is really superb result. My form is good, we can be proud. We’ll celebrate tonight,” said Tadej.

Trophies for the stage winners were awarded by Slovenian presided Borut Pahor.

Ulissi and Sobrero are now second and third in the overall rankings, Matej Mohorič (Bahrain Victorious) today lost 2^ndplace overall, but is still leading the points classifications. Tadej is best in the mountains classification, best young cyclist is Kristjan Hočevar (Adria Mobil Cycling).

Stage in and above Vipava valley will go down in history thanks to fans who made almost Tour like atmosphere.

Last stage of the Tour of Slovenia will start in Ljubljana and finish in Novo mesto.

Photos: Sportida