NXT Classic: Tibor del Grosso wins a tense two-up sprint to take a first win of the year

Tibor del Grosso of Alpecin-Deceuninck Development has secured his first victory of the season at the NXT Classic, besting Mauro Schmid (Team Jayco AlUla) in a tense two-up sprint. The Dutchman proved stronger after the pair had broken clear from a reduced peloton in the closing kilometers, with Schmid's late solo attempt ultimately proving fruitless as del Grosso reeled him in for the final dash to the line.

This win marks a significant step for the 20-year-old del Grosso, who has already shown considerable promise, particularly in cyclocross where he earned a U23 World Championship silver medal this year. For Schmid, it's another second place in a season where he's been consistently in the mix but often just short of the top step. This result underscores the strength of Alpecin-Deceuninck's development program, which continues to churn out talent ready for the big leagues.

Del Grosso's transition from mud to tarmac seems to be progressing rather smoothly. One can only hope his road victories prove as memorable as his cyclocross heroics, perhaps with fewer dismounts.