Remco Evenepoel expects big clash with Matteo Jorgenson in final stage of Paris-Nice: "He has shown very few weaknesses so far"

Remco Evenepoel was once again unable to create significant gaps in the general classification of Paris-Nice and thus remains fourth overall before the final stage, 36 second behind current leader Brandon McNulty. The Soudal - Quick-Step star will get one final stage in a short but explosive stage around Nice on Sunday.

Speaking to Het Nieuwblad, the Belgian champion found it 'somewhat logical' that Vlasov was allowed to ride away. "He was already quite far behind in the rankings. Of course I would have preferred to win the stage myself. But today I showed again that I was okay. And so was the team. Vlasov was able to ride away through some desperation after which he was given the necessary space."

"The climb was not difficult enough to get rid of everyone," Evenepoel continued. "The two attacks that took place went towards 35, 40 kilometers per hour. Then you have much more slipstream in the wheel. So it was difficult to get rid of strong GC riders like Jorgenson and Roglic."

Evenepoel expects that it will 'not be easy' to beat Matteo Jorgenson in the final stage. "For me he is the top favorite to win the classification. He has shown very few weaknesses so far. It's not going to be easy to shake him off somewhere. Certainly not if they always try to put themselves in the wheel. But that is their right."