Norwegian rider Soren Waerenskjold launched a long-range sprint to claim victory in the 11th stage of the Tour de France, which became the fastest road stage in the race's 113 editions. The 161-kilometer route from Vichy to Nevers was completed at an average speed of 50.91 km/h.

Dutchman Olav Kooij finished second, while Belgian Milan Fretin was promoted to third after compatriot Jasper Philipsen was relegated. The stage set a new speed record for a flat stage in Tour history.

The 26-year-old Waerenskjold said: "It means everything, it's my biggest win so far. I knew there are two or three guys faster than me, but with luck and a good sprint like today, it's possible." He previously finished second in stage 7 to Bordeaux.

The sprint finish was again disjointed, with no team able to organize a lead-out train. Kooij's lead-out man Cees Bol launched first, but Waerenskjold chased him down and opened a gap of several bike lengths before holding off the chasers at the line.

Eritrean Biniam Girmay finished fifth, cutting Mads Pedersen's lead in the green jersey competition to 43 points. The victory was the second stage win for Norwegian team Uno-X Mobility in its debut World Tour season.

Reigning champion Tadej Pogacar finished safely in the pack to retain his overall lead of more than three and a half minutes over two-time winner Jonas Vingegaard. Pogacar attributed the high speed to the strength of the breakaway.

A four-man breakaway went clear early but was never allowed more than 1 minute 40 seconds. With 10 km to go, their lead was down to 20 seconds, and they were caught within 4 km, setting up the expected sprint finish.

Source: www.aljazeera.com