Sam Bennett secures first victory in almost a year

Sam Bennett ended his near year-long wait for a win with a thrilling victory at the Eschborn Frankfurt Classic in Germany this afternoon.

The 31-year old from Carrick on Suir got the better of Fernando Gaviria (UAE Team Emirates) and Alexander Kristoff (Intermarche - Wanty - Gobert Materiaux) at the end of the 185-kilometre contest.

Not since 7 May 2021 has Bennett tasted victory, though that drought is owed more in part to an injury sustained before last year's Tour de France and a subsequent public spat with his former team manager Patrick Lefevere.

He put those setbacks behind him in fine style today and his more than animated demeanor as he crossed the finish line illustrated his relief.

"I think the team was fantastic today," said the Bora Hansgrohe rider afterwards.

"They really looked after me all day, helped to control the race, and then in the final there was a perfect job in the positioning. Danny (Van Poppel) really timed the lead out to perfection, bringing me inside 200 to go with a lot of speed.

"I had really good legs as well, but I just want to thank the whole team, the staff, just for supporting me the last few months, getting back on track, and always believing in me.

"I'm super happy with the result and it's fantastic to get the win for a German team at a German race."

It was Bennett's first win of the 2022 season and 57th of his career.