Despite the unusual and challenging circumstances under which the race is being held, at least Paris-Nice has delivered the action in its first two days so far.

Monday's stage 2 offered another action-packed finale that saw echelons form in the crosswinds, with plenty of movement on the overall leaderboard despite the flat profile.

Giacomo Nizzolo outsprinted Pascal Ackermann for the stage victory, with Sergio Higuita and Vincenzo Nibali among the GC riders picking up time on their rivals on the day. Nairo Quintana, who crashed late in the stage, and Julian Alaphilippe were among those losing time.

Elsewhere in the news world, Astana's riders and staff have apparently not been paid in two months. It's not the first time this has happened for the team, but management says things should be resolved soon.

Until next time, readers.