Course:
After the hectic finale of the previous day’s conclusion upon Green Mountain, Stage 5 will offer a chance for the strongmen and puncheurs to steal the limelight back once again and secure glory on the penultimate day of the Tour of Oman. This 119.5km stage features three ascents of Al Amerat, draining the legs of any contender, but the finale itself should be a sprint thanks to a flat affair leading into the finish.
Contenders:
Greg Van Avermaet is sure to view this as his best chance of taking a win in Oman, his form certainly supporting his claim to Stage 5 honours, while his team support will prove a potent asset when it matters most here. Tom Dumoulin seems to be riding himself into better condition from one day to the next, his prowess against tough climbs has improved tremendously within the last year and it would be foolish to exclude him from contention on Stage 5. Speaking of those who appear to be improving their form day after day in Oman, Edvald Boasson Hagen could be back in the mix once again and take another stage win from the anticipated reduced sprint.
Outcome:
1st Greg Van Avermaet 2nd Edvald Boasson Hagen 3rd Tom Dumoulin