The final stage of the 4 Days of Dunkirk was one for the sprinters again. After 171 kilometers, Michael Schwarzmann proved his sprint qualities. After the 24-years old German did finish the 3rd stage in 9th place already, he ranked 6th today. The stage victory went to Edward Theuns (Topsport Vlaanderen). BORA – ARGON 18 rode the stage in decreased manpower. Christoph Pfingsten didn’t start due to an illness. Jan Barta and Björn Thurau had to abandon the race. While it was a measure of precaution for Barta's start at the upcoming Tour of Bavaria, Thurau still suffered from Saturday's tough stage.

“We decided not to race for Phil at the final stage. With regard to the upcoming events, it was important for him to ride at the limit again after a block of training during this race. And yesterday’s tough stage cost him a lot of energy. Therefore, we changed our plans and wanted to prepare the finale for Michael. Even though he is the lead-out rider here, he looked for his own chance and he took it. The sixth place at such a prestigious race is a great result for him and it made it a good final day for the team”, summarizes Christian Pömer the Sunday.

“We have rather mixed feelings when it comes to an overall conclusion. The four Top10 results are nice and they show a consistent performance of the team. While this is really positive for sure, it’s a pity that we weren’t able to reach our targeted podium place in the GC”, Pömer continues.

The squad who raced the 4 Days of Dunkirk will stay in the region in the upcoming days in order to prepare for the Tour de Picardie. The three-day event will start on Friday in Northern France. Jan Barta, who will start at the Tour of Bavaria, will be replaced by Scott Thwaites.