Tipperary cyclist Sam Bennett just pipped on the line but showing great racing form in France

Tipperary’s Sam Bennett was so close to being first past the finishing line at his first stage race of the season but despite a fantastic effort he was just caught on the line in a sprint during the final stage of the Tour de Provence. 

The Carrick on Suir rider looked to make his burst for the line and had too much for Mads Pedersen (Lidl Trek), however in the final sprint at Tour de la Provence Tom Van Asbroeck of the Israel-Premier Tech just had a little more in the tank and the Belgian edged the win with little between the two.

Van Asbroeck was rightly pleased at taking the final piece of glory in a close finish which was his first win since 2019. Sam Bennett took second on the day with Axel Zingle (Cofidis) third among the front group comprising of 11 riders. Pedersen took the honours overall in Arles, France. 

Sam Bennett showed really good form going into the sprint finish into Arles, and right across the weekend, getting through the race without issues. The Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale rider ended up in 9th position overall following the 4-day French race. Next up he will now head to the UAE Tour which starts later this month. 

This is another opportunity to show some more form and continue to be in the mix when it comes to the big moments in races. Overall a good start for Bennett and plenty to build on.