Josh Tarling put in a spirited defence of the leader’s jersey the UAE Tour on the race’s first summit finish on stage three.
The young Brit was shepherded well by his INEOS Grenadiers teammates on the Jebel Jais climb, before settling into his own rhythm over the line.
After minimising his losses well to stage victor Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates – XRG), Tarling now sits second overall, 18 seconds back on the Slovenian. Despite slipping out of the leader’s jersey, Tarling still retained the Young Rider’s jersey with four stages remaining.
Carlos Rodriguez crossed the line in 17th place, 10 seconds back, and now sits 13th overall on GC. Victor Langellotti was the team’s top finisher on the day in 11th.