Contador wins Paris-Nice opener

11th March 2009

Despite wet and slippery conditions, Contador beat Olympic individual pursuit champion Bradley Wiggins (Garmin-Slipstream) by seven seconds to claim the race leader’s yellow jersey.

Contador wins Paris-Nice opener

Contador covered the 9.3km course in 11 minutes, 6 seconds with an average speed of 50.3kph. “I didn’t think I won when I crossed the line. I thought Wiggins beat me by a few seconds,” Contador said.

“I am not the favorite, because the race has just started and you have to remain calm,” Contador said. “We may have to give up the jersey, because this race cannot be controlled by one team. For me, it’s as if Paris-Nice begins tomorrow.”

Stage 1, Amily time trial 9.3 km (5.78 miles)

Winner: Alberto Contador (Astana) in 11:05
Leader: Contador
Winner's average speed: 50.35 kph (31.28 mph)
Best Young Rider: Tony Martin (Columbia-Highroad), fourth overall at 11 seconds.
Best Team: Astana
Points Leader: Contador
Peloton: 159 riders started and completed the stage

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