Ethan Vernon claimed back-to-back victories for the fourth time in his career on Wednesday as he doubled up at Region Pays de la Loire in France to extend his lead on GC.
Vernon‘s victory in today’s second stage felt similar to his triumph in Vertou on Tuesday, as the British rider produced an emphatic sprint in Les Sables-d’Olonne at the end of a stage during which he and his NSN teammates were again put under pressure by the home teams.
The 25-year-old last took consecutive victories in a race at the Tour de Guangxi in October 2024, and this latest back-to-back sees him increase his gap over his nearest rival on GC – Erlend Blikra (UXM), who came second once again – to eight seconds.
Ethan Vernon said: “I was really happy to back up yesterday’s performance. It’s always nice to go back-to-back with a win, especially here after a tough couple of days of racing.
“The team did a really good job controlling the stage without much help from the other teams, and that made a big difference going into the final.
“It was a really messy run-in, but we managed to reorganize well in the final 2km and put ourselves in the right position, and from there I could finish it off.”
Sports Director Alex Cataford said :
“Another strong showing from the team today. The final 5km was very tricky, so it was essential to have our lead-out for Corbin and Ethan dialed. The guys executed it really well, and Ethan once again showed he is the best sprinter here, taking the win.
“Corbin again finished strongly just behind, and tomorrow we will focus on his GC ambitions.”
