Wattelle Fights for another Top 10 Despite Reduced Line-Up in Taiwan

Team Novo Nordisk showed resilience and growing confidence on a challenging stage at the Tour de Taiwan, overcoming adversity to secure another top ten result as Celestin Wattelle sprinted to 8th.

The day began with uncertainty for the world’s first all-diabetes professional cycling team, as Donovan Mackie was forced to withdraw before the start due to illness. Reduced to just three riders against full-strength squads, the team faced an uphill battle from the outset.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Team Novo Nordisk remained active and attentive throughout the stage. The trio successfully covered several dangerous attacks in the early phases, demonstrating strong cohesion and race awareness. However, when the decisive move of the day went clear, the team was unable to follow as larger teams asserted their control at the front of the race.

As the stage progressed, the peloton began to reorganize the chase. Team Novo Nordisk contributed where possible, helping to bring the race back together just before the final lap, a decisive 20km circuit featuring a steady 5km climb averaging around 2%.

Sensing an opportunity, the team committed fully to their plan. After cresting the climb for the first time, it was clear there was a chance to fight for a result. Anton Muller and Hamish Beadle delivered a strong lead-out, positioning Wattelle perfectly ahead of the final ascent.

Crossing the line in 8th place, the result marked another encouraging step forward for the team.

“It was really close to the top five, and I wanted that for the team,” the rider said after the finish. “But it’s good to see that we are improving day by day.”

Team Novo Nordisk will look to carry this performance into the weekend when the team lines up in its biggest race of the season, the Milan Sanremo Classic.