The mountains delivered drama on Stage 3 of the UAE Tour as Italy’s Antonio Tiberi powered to a statement victory, holding off a fierce late charge from Mexico’s Isaac del Toro on the punishing slopes of Jebel Mobrah.
The 13.2km summit finish, stretching across the border of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, proved decisive in reshaping the general classification. With gradients ramping up to 12 per cent in the final kilometres, the climb shattered the peloton and exposed even the strongest contenders.
Evenepoel Falters, GC Battle Ignites
Overnight leader Remco Evenepoel endured a difficult day in the saddle. After dominating the Stage 2 time trial in Abu Dhabi, the Belgian star struggled on the steepest ramps of Jebel Mobrah and ultimately lost significant time, surrendering the coveted red jersey.
Sensing opportunity, Tiberi launched a decisive move and rode with composure to the summit, crossing the line 15 seconds ahead of Del Toro. Belgium’s Lennert Van Eetvelt claimed third, 29 seconds behind the winner.
“I was dreaming of this win since I became a pro,” Tiberi said after the finish. “The feeling was good from the start of the season. I was waiting for this moment — and today it arrived.”
Breakaway Drama Before the Climb
Earlier in the 183km stage, Alpecin-Premier Tech duo Silvan Dillier and Jonas Rickaert animated proceedings with a bold two-man breakaway that lasted more than 170km. However, once the race hit the base of Jebel Mobrah, the escape was swiftly neutralised as the favourites prepared for battle.
The decisive blows came inside the final 5km. Evenepoel was dropped, and the GC picture flipped dramatically. Del Toro, who had appeared distanced earlier on the climb, found his rhythm late and launched a stinging attack. Though it fell just short, it vaulted him into second overall — now 21 seconds behind Tiberi.
Evenepoel slips to 11th in the standings, 1 minute and 21 seconds off the lead, turning what seemed a controlled race into a wide-open contest.
UAE’s Mountains Deliver Again
Jebel Mobrah once again showcased the UAE’s growing stature on the global cycling calendar. The demanding terrain and stunning desert-mountain backdrop provided both spectacle and sporting substance, reinforcing the UAE Tour’s reputation as one of the most competitive early-season races on the WorldTour.
Attention now turns to Stage 4 — a 182km sprint stage starting and finishing in Fujairah — where the fast men are expected to take centre stage. But after Wednesday’s mountain drama, the general classification battle is far from settled.
