Olav Kooij won the first stage of the Tour of Britain, from Woodbridge to Southwood (161.4km).

The entirely flat stage concluded with a compact group sprint, in which the Team Visma rider prevailed with ease, thanks in part to Brennan's flawless lead-out. Behind him were Norwegian rider Gudmestad (Decathlon Ag2R) and Hofstetter (Israel Premier Tech). Dainese finished 5th.

Tomorrow is another day dedicated to fast wheels with the second stage free of any altimetric difficulties.