Hayter impresses in Algarve

Young Brit wins stage in style and claims second on GC, reports Vern Pitt

- Vern Pitt

Despite a crash in the crucial stage four time trial that appeared to deny him his first ever GC victory, 22-year-old Ethan Hayter (Ineos Grenadiers) came away from the Volta ao Algarve encouraged by his performance.

Hayter won the queen stage, stage two, of the Portuguese race atop Alto de Foia in convincing fashion. While notable climbers around him were clearly in distress the Londoner looked composed and in control. It was far from a surprise when he outsprinted them all to the line.

At the time he said: “My aim today was to limit my losses, but to win was really special. I owe it to the team who were in the perfect position all day, and Sosa and Seb made the difference on the last climb.

“It was perfect for me as it was a headwind most of the way and I felt good following in the wheels… It couldn’t have gone better today.”

Speaking after the race on Monday morning Ineos sports director Brett Lancaster said: “We did see a different Ethan this week. He was really confident and very good in the radio, very clear to his team-mates with what he wanted.”