Tom Dumoulin sprinted to 5th on stage 3 and remains the leader in the general classification at the Tour de Suisse. Peter Sagan won the stage as Warren Barguil came in at 25th. 

The third stage at the Tour de Suisse went from Quinto to Olivone and started uphill with the climb of the Gotthardpas. With 117.3km it was a relatively short stage.

A break of three leaders, who attacked on the first climb of the day colored today’s stage. Team Giant-Alpecin led the chase towards the finale, as Team Tinkoff-Saxo took over. The early breakaway was caught back at the 3rd category climb with 15km to go.

In the finale, several attacks were unsuccessful as the reduced bunch of 30 riders headed to Olivone for a sprint. Peter Sagan (Tinkoff – Saxo) was the fastest and with a 5th place, Dumoulin delivered another great performance. No time differences were registered in the top-30 of the stage ranking so he will start tomorrow’s stage 4 in the yellow jersey again.

After the stage Dumoulin said: ”It was a good day. The ascent of the Gotthardpass was less difficult than expected, so was defending the jersey. Early in the stage, a small breakaway group escaped without guys that were a threat for the GC, so we gave them space.

“Tinkoff-Saxo wanted a sprint, which meant that they kept the bunch together, so we were able to save energy for the days to come. The guys helped me all stage long and we didn’t have to work in the finale.

“The finale was hectic with the slippery roads. We didn’t lose control over the situation and I wasn’t afraid of potentially losing the jersey because of all the attacks, as I had Warren with me all the time.

“I continue to learn and develop as a leader, which feels more naturally within the team.”

Dumoulin looks ahead to the upcoming stages, saying: “With the bonus seconds that are divided at tomorrow’s finish line, Sagan may take over the overall lead, but we will see. Tomorrow there will be a possible sprinting opportunity if John [Degenkolb] survives the hilly sections in the finale.

“Wednesday’s stage will be a tough one for sure, but I am in good shape at the moment. If I can set my own pace, I hope to minimize the time lost. If I lose less than 1’30”, everything is still possible in the closing time trial on Sunday.”