Only a few centimeters separated Danny von Poppel in Hamburg from his first victory in a WorldTour classic. After winning in Cologne in May, the 30-year-old almost managed to take the German double. But Mads Pedersen narrowly defeat him in the sprint.
As is often the case in Hamburg, the last crossing of the Waseberg was decisive. An increased pace on the last climb forced a selection in the peloton. Nils Politt attacked from this leading group with two other riders, and they rode with a small lead into the last kilometre. Only on the finishing straight did Pedersen close the gap as a soloist. Danny van Poppel emerged from the chasing pack at top speed and almost beat the former world champion in the long sprint.
Results
01 M. Pedersen 4:36:35
02 D. Van Poppel +0:00
03 E. Viviani +0:00
From the Finish Line
"It was harder than in the years before but on the last climb I was still there. Then we played a super-good team tactic with Nils and Marco. I'm disappointed because it was so close. It would have been a big win for me and the team." - Danny van Poppel
"I'm really proud how the guys raced today. Normally you're disappointed with second place in the sprint, but today I'm really happy with the podium. The team showed a lot of character and fought all the way to the finish line." - Christian Pömer, Sports Director