🎥 Drama in Denmark: Price-Pejtersen beats Skjelmose but is disqualified on the podium

The Danish time trial turned into a personal drama for Johan Price-Pejtersen on Friday evening. The 25-year-old rider of Bahrain Victorious seemed to pull off a major feat by defeating Mattias Skjelmose in a direct battle for the national time trial title. However, Price-Pejtersen was disqualified on his way to the podium.

The speedster had been two seconds faster than favorite Skjelmose of Lidl-Trek on a 41.3-kilometer course. Price-Pejtersen was overjoyed with his performance, as this marked his first and biggest victory ever. However, things went wrong on the way to the podium ceremony. According to journalist Brian Nygaard, Lidl-Trek (Skjelmose's team) pointed out to the jury that Price-Pejtersen had ridden on the bike path during the race, which is not allowed according to UCI rules.

This led to disqualification, which Danish media Feltet reported was received with great frustration by Price-Pejtersen. Due to the disqualification, Skjelmose is now the Danish time trial champion, succeeding Kasper Asgreen. The Soudal-Quick Step rider was the champion last year but only managed to finish third on Friday. His result has now been adjusted to second place.

Skjelmose and Lidl-Trek declined to comment on the situation afterwards. "I’ve indicated that I won’t be answering any questions about this, so think twice before you ask something," said a stern Skjelmose. "I’m happy with the jersey. It’s a special experience. My time trial was quite good, although I knew it would be tough in the second part with a slight headwind."

Video: Price-Pejtersen rides on the bike path