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Matteo Jorgenson has begun his Paris-Nice title defense on a strong note, showing confidence and form reminiscent of his victorious campaign 12 months ago. The U.S. rider made an aggressive move on the final climb of Sunday’s opening stage, breaking clear with Julian Alaphilippe and cresting the summit in first place. Although the duo was reeled in, Jorgenson later secured four bonus seconds by finishing second in a time bonus sprint, positioning him fifth overall. With the stage ultimately ending in a sprint victory for Tim Merlier, Jorgenson’s performance highlighted his readiness for the race.
Visma-Lease a Bike sports director Grischa Niermann praised the team’s effort, emphasizing the importance of Jorgenson and teammate Jonas Vingegaard finishing safely. The race marks a key target for Jorgenson, whose 2023 Paris-Nice win was a career-defining moment, boosting his confidence and reputation. This year, he shares leadership with Vingegaard, a two-time Tour de France winner, but remains focused on achieving his personal best. Niermann noted that both riders are in excellent condition, with Jorgenson thriving on the confidence drawn from his recent performances in Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne.
The dynamic between Jorgenson and Vingegaard adds intrigue to the race. While both aim for victory, Vingegaard has expressed willingness to support Jorgenson if the latter emerges as the stronger contender. This collaborative approach underscores the team’s emphasis on achieving the best possible result, regardless of which rider takes the top spot. Jorgenson, in turn, acknowledged Vingegaard’s selflessness, jokingly referring to him as a “domestic” before clarifying it was a lighthearted remark.
Looking ahead, Jorgenson’s form and morale bode well for his Paris-Nice campaign. His performance in stage one reinforces his belief in his ability to contend for the win once again. Meanwhile, Visma-Lease a Bike’s dual-leader strategy could prove pivotal in navigating the challenges of the eight-day race. With Jorgenson and Vingegaard in top condition, the team is well-equipped to pursue success in one of cycling’s most prestigious stage races.
