BINTULU, 6 October 2024 – Max Poole of Team DSM-Firmenich PostNL etched his name in the history books of the PETRONAS Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) 2024, becoming the second British cyclist to claim the overall title. His victory on Sunday marked a significant milestone for British cycling, following in the footsteps of Simor Carr (EF Education-EasyPost) who won in 2023.
The 21-year-old climbing specialist secured the overall title with a total time of 26:27.44, also clinching the Green Jersey for the 28th edition of the prestigious Asian race. Poole’s achievement is even more remarkable considering he’s one of the youngest champions in LTdL history, surpassed only by Jonathan Monsalve (2011).
Despite finishing 35th in the final stage, Poole’s consistent performance throughout the week was enough to secure the championship. His victory in Stage 3 (Taiping to Cameron Highlands) proved to be a turning point, setting the stage for his overall triumph.
“I came to Malaysia without thinking about making history,” Poole said. “I focused on each stage and my victory in Stage 3 was a big boost. I’m delighted with my success and hope to return next year to defend my title.”
Thomas Pesenti (JCL Team Ukyo) finished a close second, just 0.13 seconds behind Poole, while Unai Iribar Jauregi (Equipo Kern Pharma) rounded out the podium. The best Malaysian rider was Muhammad Nur Aiman Mohd Zariff (Terengganu Cycling Team), who finished in 41st overall.
In addition to Poole’s historic win, JCL Team Ukyo’s Matteo Malucelli completed a hat trick of stage victories, securing the King of Sprints title. The Italian sprinter won Stages 2, 7, and 8, accumulating 80 points to edge out Tudor Pro Cycling Team’s Arvid de Kleijn by just two points.
Also Read: LTdL 2024 Stage 7: Malucelli’s Explosive Finish Secures Dramatic Win
JCL Team UKYO’s Manabu Ishibashi claimed the Best Asian Rider title, while Munoz Mario Aparicio (Burgos-BH) won the King of the Mountains jersey. Equipo Kern Pharma emerged as the overall team champions, followed by Astana Qazaqstan Team and Team Polti Kometa. JCL Team UKYO also won the Best Asian Team award.
PETRONAS Le Tour de Langkawi 2024 Roll of Honours:
- General Classification (PETRONAS Green Jersey): Max Poole (DSM Firmenich PostNL)
- Best Asian Rider (MSN White Jersey): Ishida Manabu (JCL Team Ukyo)
- Best Sprinter (KBS Orange Jersey): Matteo Malucelli (JCL Team Ukyo)
- Best Climber – KOM (Tourism Malaysia Polka Dot Jersey): Mauro Aparicio Munoz (BBH)
- Team General Classification: Equipo Kern Pharma
- Best Asian Team: JCL Team Ukyo
