We have previously spoken of Lotto-Belisol’s mastery of the crosswinds – something which came to the fore during the Tour Down Under. But here in Oman they very nearly faltered after having pulled hard on the front of the bunch all day. Leading the chase of the four escapees, and keeping them at a manageable distance throughout the day, the Belgian team looked well set to once again lead the way for the sprint finish.

One sudden blast of wind however, and on the exposed roads the bunch had split and the majority of the riders in red had been spat out the back. Headwinds came to their rescue, slowing the leading group significantly and allowing Lotto-Belisol to once again pull hard and latch back on. But it was a timely reminder as to the unpredictable nature of mother nature. Mind the gap!