Mikel Landa headlines our seven-man squad for one of the best races of the season.
One of the two cycling races mentioned by Ernest Hemingway in his acclaimed novel “The Sun Also Rises”, Itzulia Basque Country holds its 65th edition next week, when a total of 29 classified climbs will dot the route, a relentless up and down one that starts from Bilbao and concludes in Bergara, six days later.
A 13.9km individual time trial on the roads of the region’s largest city is set to establish an initial pecking order, and there is a chance to see some interesting gaps between the favourites, as the parcours features a 2.6km climb right in the beginning and a short but brutal hill, where the road kicks up at 19%, just before the finish line. The next day takes the peloton across a rugged territory, typical for the Basque Country, with 3300 vertical meters and an explosive finish in Mendukilo, followed by a stage to Basauri, where a breakaway could get an opportunity to shine.
The same can be said about the fourth stage, one containing a total of seven classified climbs around Galdakao, a town located in the valley of the Ibaizabal river. The longest and hardest stage of the week will be the one in Eibar; the course, containing no fewer than eight climbs – many of which have double-digit gradients – will ensure a process of attrition and a spectacular GC battle, which should continue in Bergara, where more hills await on the final day.
Runner-up on two occasions, Mikel Landa returns at the start of his home race, hoping to be again in the mix for a good result. He will be joined by Ayco Bastiaens, Steff Cras, British ITT Champion Ethan Hayter, Martin Svrcek, Ilan Van Wilder, and Mauri Vansevenant.
Soudal Quick-Step sports director Kevin Hulsmans previewed our 15th World Tour race of the season: “We’ve selected a strong and well-balanced squad for this event. Being on his home roads will give Mikel Landa, and the entire squad for that matter, an extra layer of motivation.”
Itzulia is always a demanding race, and this edition will be no different.
“With the opening time trial, riders like Ethan and Ilan have a great opportunity to get a good result and position themselves well in the general classification. As the race progresses into the tougher stages, we believe we have the depth and strength within the team to target both stage victories and a strong overall classification. Our goal is to be competitive throughout the week and make the most of every opportunity.”
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