*EL ALOUANI DRISS OF MOROCCO WlNS STAGE 8 OF TOUR DU FASO FROM OUAGADOUGOU TO YAKO.*

EL ALOUANI DRISS OF MOROCCO WlNS STAGE 8 OF TOUR DU FASO FROM OUAGADOUGOU TO YAKO

The Solo win by Morocco’s Driss El Alouani became the highlight of the Tour du Faso as the young cyclist, nicknamed the "Undertaker," left audiences stunned. In a surprising turn of events, he outpaced not only his fellow Under-23 riders but also all the Elite competitors, claiming a decisive solo victory ahead of Russian Anton Popov and Belgian Lance De Cabooter. His relentless power and unmatched endurance in the 116.8km course from Ouagadougou to Yako demonstrated his skill and tenacity, securing his reputation as one of the most promising riders in this year’s race.

The Tour du Faso has been a proving ground for El Alouani. Previously, he made headlines as the youngest white jersey holder, symbolizing the best young rider, a distinction that once again proved fitting in this grueling stage. With his strong solo breakaway, he crossed the finish line in grand style, showcasing a level of endurance that seemed beyond his years. The 116.8km stretch demanded a high level of stamina and resilience, yet El Alouani stayed ahead from the early kilometers, building a commanding lead that he maintained through to the finish line.

The race, however, was not without its challenges. Among the 59 cyclists who had signed up for stage 8, many faced unexpected mechanical issues. Riders from several teams, including those from Benin, Russia, and the host nation, Burkina Faso, struggled to keep pace due to mechanical faults, which forced them to slow down or stop for repairs. The challenging terrain of the Tour du Faso, coupled with intense competition, took its toll on both equipment and energy levels. Many riders found themselves unable to catch up to the peloton, which eventually dwindled to a small, fiercely competitive group.

The Under-23 category also had its share of drama. Morocco’s Adil El Arbaoui, who had been wearing the prestigious Green Jersey, found himself outpaced by Anton Popov of Russia. Popov’s strong performance allowed him to clinch the jersey, recording an impressive average speed of 44.080km/h and completing the stage in 2 hours, 38 minutes, and 59 seconds. For El Arbaoui, relinquishing the Green Jersey was undoubtedly disappointing, but his performance throughout the tour has marked him as one to watch in future competitions.

In the end, Driss El Alouani’s victory became the defining moment of the day. His ability to secure a solo win against such a competitive field underscores his rising status in the world of cycling. As he celebrated his win, he not only inspired his fellow countrymen but also left a mark on the Tour du Faso, which will remember him as the "Undertaker" who silenced the competition with his strength and determination.