Domen Novak's Bold Attack: The Third-Place Finish That Shook the CRO Race

Klaus Schmidt · 2026-09-26

### The Move That Changed Everything Domen Novak didn't just ride stage 4 of the CRO Race—he attacked it. With 39 kilometers (about 24 miles) still to go, the Slovenian climber launched a bold move for UAE Team Emirates-XRG. It was the kind of gamble that either wins you the day or leaves you empty. Novak made it count. He sprinted to third place from a select group, crossing the line just behind the stage winner. A day earlier, his teammate Tim Wellens had taken third on stage 3. Now it was Novak's turn to shine. And with Wellens holding onto third overall, the team suddenly had momentum on its side heading into the final two stages. ### Why This Result Matters More Than It Looks Third place might not sound like a headline-grabber. But context is everything. This wasn't a flat, predictable sprint where the fast guys just do their thing. This was a climber's move—a long-range attack that forced everyone else to react. Novak didn't wait for the perfect moment. He created it. That kind of riding does two things. First, it puts pressure on rival teams. They have to chase, burn matches, and maybe make mistakes. Second, it sends a message: UAE Team Emirates-XRG isn't just here to ride. They're here to race. ### Wellens and Novak: A Two-Pronged Threat Let's talk about what this means for the overall standings. Wellens sits third on general classification. Novak just proved he has the legs to animate a stage. That's a dangerous combination for anyone trying to control the race. - **Wellens** stays patient, saves energy, and waits for the final climbs. - **Novak** can go on the offensive, forcing other teams to work. - Together, they give UAE Team Emirates-XRG options. And options win races. > "A day after Tim Wellens took third spot on stage 3, it was his teammate Domen Novak who shone on the roads of the CRO Race." That's not just a nice line. It's a pattern. When one rider falters, another steps up. That's how strong teams operate. ### What to Watch in the Final Two Stages With two stages left, the race is far from over. Wellens needs to defend his podium spot. Novak has shown he can attack from far out. The question is: will they go all-in for a stage win, or protect the overall podium? My guess? Both. Novak will likely get another green light to attack. If it sticks, great. If not, Wellens sits tight and waits for his moment. Either way, UAE Team Emirates-XRG is playing with house money now. ### The Bigger Picture Stage races are won by teams that can adapt. Novak's third place wasn't just a good result—it was a statement. It told everyone that this team has depth, ambition, and the legs to back it up. So keep an eye on the CRO Race. The final two stages could get wild. And if Novak gets another gap, don't be surprised if he turns third into something even better.