Stage 3: Lac de Bairon -> Lac des Vieilles Forges
Following Pavel Sumpik’s impressive stage win on stage 2, Team Picnic PostNL lined up for stage 3 of Circuit des Ardennes full of confidence. The third stage proved to be a tough one, featuring rolling terrain throughout the day and five categorized climbs.
As expected, the race was animated by constant attacks. Team Picnic PostNL contributed to the pace-setting in the peloton, working to bring the breakaway back. However, the stage was ultimately decided from the front group, as the attackers managed to stay clear. The peloton, with all Team Picnic PostNL riders safely in the bunch, finished 17 seconds behind and just missed out on contesting the win. Pavel Sumpik was the first finisher for the team, crossing the line just outside the top 20.