Stephen Williams outsprints Alaphilippe and Onley to win stage 2 and take overall lead at 2024 Tour of Britain

After a thrilling day of racing on stage 2 at the 2024 Tour of Britain, Stephen Williams not only took the stage win but moved into the overall lead of the race also.

Eight riders got themselves in the day's early breakaway on stage 2, including the King of the Mountains leader, Callum Thornley. With around 50km to go however, the leaders were joined by an all-star chase group that included the likes of Julian Alaphilippe, Remco Evenepoel, Oscar Onley, Wout Poels, Joseph Blackmore, Stephen Williams and Ethan Vernon. Notably absent however, was INEOS Grenadiers and Tom Pidcock.

With the attacks continuing however, an elite group of eight riders headed into the final 10km. With Israel - Premier Tech and Soudal - Quick-Step having multiple numbers, each team were attempting one-two attacks. On the final Saltburn climb, Stevie Williams powered clear, with only Onley managing to hold on, although Alaphilippe did bridge the gap eventually. With that trio sprinting for the stage win, Williams took victory ahead of Alaphilippe, with Onley in third.