Matthew Brennan has claimed victory in the second stage of the Tour of Norway. The young Brit sprinted brilliantly to the stage win, also taking over the lead in the general classification.
“This one was really special”, a proud Brennan says afterwards. “A lot of riders tried to attack near the end, but the team did everything they could to put me in a good position for the finish. To be able to finish it off like that is just incredible.”
The 19-year-old rider credited his eighth win of the season to the strong efforts of his teammates. “Everyone played a key role today, especially in that chaotic finale. We were always well-positioned and controlled the race. That gives such a great feeling.” Sports director Frans Maassen adds: “This was even more impressive than our attempt yesterday. A fantastic job by Matthew, he crowned the hard work of the entire team.”
Maassen was referring in particular to Thomas Gloag’s attack on the climb of the Sirdalstoppen. That move allowed Team Visma | Lease a Bike to sit back in the bunch towards the finish of the second stage. “That was a very smart move from us”, Maassen says. “We followed it up strongly with great work from Tosh, Attila, and Jørgen, and then in the final with Per. Of course, Matthew still had to have the legs, but once again, he showed that. Incredible.”
Robbert de Groot, Head of Development: “Matthew is going through an incredible development. The fact that the team is riding for him at such a young age is something he’s earned himself. He currently has the most victories of any rider in our team this season.” Brennan’s win is his eighth, bringing the WorldTeam’s tally to seventeen victories this cycling year.
The so-called White Jersey group, consisting of riders under 23, is being given plenty of opportunities to prove themselves in various races and with Brennan, those chances are turning into standout victories. “This is a very special situation, and it shows we’re heading in the right direction as a team. Matthew’s performances – today again with support from former Development Team riders Per and Jørgen – send a clear message to his peers. It’s a huge motivation for the young guys who are already knocking on the door”, De Groot concludes.
