Stage one winner Dylan Groenewegen was narrowly pipped to victory in a photo finish to stage two of the Saudi Tour.

The Dutchman looked to have the speed to come around Jonathan Milan in the dash for the line, but the Italian held on as the pair threw their bikes across the finish line.

Team Jayco AlUla had guided Groenewegen through another tricky stage that saw the peloton split to pieces in crosswinds inside the final 30km. The team were alert to the danger and amassed on the front of the bunch, with Groenewegen himself taking turns as riders battled the strong winds.

The squad once again took control inside the final 3km with Luka Mezgec teeing up his teammate inside the final 300 metres. However, Milan went early and despite coming with speed, Groenewegen ran out of road as the duo lunged for victory.

Dylan Groenewegen:
“The team was really strong today, again, but I waited too long to start my sprint, it was my mistake and it’s really disappointing.

We showed again that the shape is really good in the whole team, including me and tomorrow there is maybe another chance, there’s a bit of a hill, but we will see tomorrow.”  

2023 Saudi Tour Stage 2 – Results:
1. Jonathan Milan 4:33:35
2. Dylan Groenewegen (Team Jayco AlUla) ST
3. Cees Bol ST

Photo: Sprint Cycling