'If we’d dragged Philipsen to the line, I’d most likely have lost' - Pedersen explains Lidl-Trek plan

Pedersen’s victory on Bornholm was as much about tactics as it was about strength. Speaking to Danish broadcaster DR, he said: “When we’re going full gas, we don’t really think about where we are. Winning just feels good, whether it’s on Bornholm or anywhere else.” The Dane made a point of acknowledging the crowd that had lined the finishing laps: “There were loads of people out on the laps, it gave us that extra push. Thanks to Bornholm and to everyone who helped get us here. To top it off with a win, that’s just brilliant.”

The turning point came with less than 40km to race. Together with teammate Mattias Skjelmose, Pedersen bridged across to the leaders after a well-timed counterattack, turning the stage into a select battle rather than a mass sprint. “We wanted a proper race, to split things up so we didn’t end up in a bunch sprint. If we’d dragged Jasper Philipsen to the line, I’d most likely have lost. That wasn’t an option for us,” he explained.

Speaking via Lidl-Trek’s own channels, the Dane explained that the selection formed on the second climb. “We got away with a good group. Only a few GC riders were there, and others were already behind, so everyone wanted to work.” Julius Johansen attacked late, but Skjelmose covered the move, leaving Pedersen fresh for the finale.

Skjelmose delivered a strong lead-out, and Pedersen powered to both the stage win and the first leader’s jersey. “Today you could lose the GC, so this is the perfect start,” he said. “We’ve been in this kind of situation before. It’s always good to have multiple options,” noting that both he and Skjelmose are well placed overall.

With two riders in the top 10 and a confident opening display, Lidl-Trek has set the tone for what could be a successful week for its Danish contingent.