Paul Seixas delivered another commanding performance at the Tour of the Basque Country, powering to victory on stage two to extend his overall lead.

Paul Seixas Attacks To Win Mendukilo Stage

The French teenager launched a decisive solo move on the toughest climb of the day, 26 kilometers from the finish, and never looked back.

Seixas crossed the line 1 minute 25 seconds ahead of Mattias Skjelmose, with Primož Roglič finishing just behind in third after the 164.1-kilometer stage from Pamplona to Cuevas de Mendukilo.

The climb to victory came after a strong ride through mountainous terrain that included the demanding San Miguel de Aralar ascent.

A breakaway group had built a lead of over 2 minutes 30 seconds earlier in the stage, but Seixas reeled them in with a powerful acceleration on the final climb.

Paul Seixas Strengthens Grip On Basque Tour Lead

The 19-year-old extended his advantage in the general classification to 1 minute 59 seconds over Roglič, with Florian Lipowitz a further nine seconds back in third.

Seixas had already taken the leader's jersey after winning the opening time trial in Bilbao, becoming the first French rider since 2021 to win a WorldTour time trial.

Kevin Vauquelin, who started the day second overall, crashed with 50 kilometers remaining but was able to rejoin the race.

After Seixas bridged across to the breakaway on the final climb, he quickly opened a gap and rode solo to the finish.

Stage three will see the peloton tackle a 152.8-kilometer hilly route starting and finishing in Basauri.