Jasper Philipsen wins Saitama Criterium with Vingegaard and Thomas featuring in the podium

Jasper Philipsen took the victory in Saitama Criterium on Sunday. He beat Jonas Vingegaard and Geraint Thomas in the final sprint.

He enjoyed the criterium, his favourite part was the huge crowds packing the roadside to see their favourite cycling stars. “It’s a really nice feeling, it’s been a while,” Philipsen said. “In front of so many people here in Saitama, it’s a really cool atmosphere. I had good legs today and this kind of criterium suits me well, so I was happy with how it went.”

Vincenzo Nibali and Alejandro Valverde also marked their presence and even enjoyed a 25 seconds hap for some time. Vingegaard, Thomas, Philipsen, Enric Mas and Chris Froome tried their best to provide the crowd with an interesting evening.

Vingegaard, Thomas and Philipsen sprinted to determine the winner, Philipsen came out on top while Vingegaard climbed up the podium for silver. Geraint Thomas finished third.