Rafal Majka defended his second place in what could have been a tricky stage 4 of the USA Pro Challenge when he finished safely in the peloton. The Pole is now ready for today's stage where a late climb can create a selection among the GC riders.

Two days ago Rafal Majka put himself in a perfect position to finish on the podium in the USA Pro Challenge. With two important stages coming up on Friday and Saturday, it was all about staying safe in yesterday's stage 4.

“Having stage 5 in mind, our goal today was to bring Rafal safely through the day without losing time and as he finished in the first big group of about 60 riders, he’s still second overall," sports director Lars Michaelsen said. "Also Poljanski, Guldhammer, Pires and Beltran were in the mix.

"Unfortunately, Michael Mørkøv hasn’t been feeling well over here and in order to allow him to fully recover for the coming challenges and the last races of the season, he will not be taking on tomorrow’s stage. Stage 5 is another mountain challenge and it will be decisive for GC."