George Bennett has finished third in the fourth stage of the Tour of Poland. During the stage with the first uphill finish, the 28-year-old rider from New Zealand crossed the finish line three seconds after stage winner Michal Kwiatkowski. Bennett holds the same position in the general classification.

In the stage with four climbs of the first category, it was waiting for the decision until the final climb, a one kilometre long steep Mur. Bennett was perfectly positioned by Enrico Battaglin and was assisted on the climb for a long time by Floris De Tier.

“The entire team did a great job today”, said Bennett who looked back at the stage with satisfaction. “The team perfectly protected me throughout the day. Everyone really contributed. In the end, we still were with three men in the front group. Enrico did a great job putting me in a good position for the final climb. That climb was very steep, so you had to be smart in the way you used your energy and not to be in the front too early. It was a climb for punchers, so not really suitable for me. I’m happy with this third place. It’s a confirmation that I’m heading in the right direction towards the Vuelta.”

Sports director Grischa Niermann concurred with his team captain. “The team was very good. Everyone was still in the front group before the penultimate climb. They protected George and kept him well in the front all day. That’s good. The third place is a great result and we can certainly continue to build on this, this week. For what is yet to come.”