 Ullrich has just come back from a drug ban |
Jan Ullrich claimed his first victory in 18 months with victory in the Tour of Cologne. The 29-year Coast rider recently returned from a long lay-off due to a drugs ban and a knee injury.
In his first competition in 19 months on his native German soil, Ullrich initiated a breakaway with around 55km to go on one of the climbs on the 203km course.
He held on to his lead for the remaining 55km and finished just under two minutes ahead of his closest rival.
Compatriot Danilo Hondo dominated a sprint finish to take second, ahead of Austrian Peter Wrolich.
"I've never won a race so early in the season," declared Ullrich at the finish.
Ullrich's last win was back in October 2001 when he pipped Britain's David Millar to win the world time trial title in Lisbon.
Results
1. Jan Ullrich (GER) Coast 4hr 35min 40sec
2. Danilo Hondo (GER) at 1min 52sec
3. Peter Wrolich (AUT) same time
4. Bert Scheirlinckx (BEL) s.t.
5. Steffen Radochla (GER) s.t.
6. Joern Reuss (GER) s.t.
MMIX
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