An unexpected development hit the third stage of the ΔΕΗ Tour of Hellas 2025 from Delphi to Chalkida had. Approximately one hour and 41 kilometres before the riders reached the finish line at the old bridge of Chalkida, and as they had entered Thebes, the race director decided to cancel the stage for safety reasons due to adverse weather conditions. The rain, which accompanied the riders almost throughout the whole stage, became torrential and the terrain was covered with small or even large paddles.
With the three riders of the breakaway, German Vinzent Dorn (BIKE AID), Briton George Radcliffe (XSpeed United) and Brazilian Nícolas Sessler (Victoria Sports Pro Cycling) reaching the city of Thebes first, an order to neutralize the race was given by the race director. About two minutes later came the peloton and all were redirected to a safe shed to protect themselves from the rain, which, combined with the relatively low temperature (14 degrees Celsius), made it difficult to stay outdoors.
Despite the efforts of the race stewards and the teams to restart the stage, this was not possible, as the weather conditions in the next kilometres remained unfavourable. Thus, by decision of the stewards and the agreement of the teams, the stage was canceleled.
“The safety of the riders is our priority, which is why we decided to stop the stage,” said race director Vladimiros Petsas. The decision was supported by all members of the race committee, i.e. the commissaires of the UCI, as well as the teams.
Although the two KoM and one intermediate sprint had been completed before the incident, the third stage will not be taken into account, and tomorrow’s stage (April 5) from Chalkida to the Olympic Village will be a continuation of the second, with the classification remaining as it was after Thursday’s finish in Arachova.
Photos - ΔΕΗ tour Of Hellas 2025
