emirates7 - Sebastián Molano of UAE Team Emirates showcased his sprinting prowess, securing a close second-place finish in the opening stage of the AlUla Tour, which commenced in Saudi Arabia today.

Stage 1 featured a predominantly flat route, covering a 142.7km loop around the historic oasis city of AlUla, with both the start and finish at Al Manshiyah Train Station.

As the peloton accelerated in the final kilometers, Molano, expertly positioned by his leadout rider Ivo Oliveira, latched onto the wheel of Tim Merlier (Soudal-Quickstep). However, the Belgian sprinter’s powerful final surge proved decisive, allowing him to take the victory, with Molano finishing just behind in second place.

The closing kilometers saw a crash within the last five kilometers, involving several riders, including Rafal Majka and Adria Pericas. Majka suffered the greater impact, sustaining a rib injury and abrasions to his right knee. Despite the incident, both riders managed to complete the stage and are expected to continue in Stage 2, which will take the peloton from AlUla Old Town to Bir Jaydah Mountain Wirkah over a 157.7km course.