14 June 2016
IAM Cycling
THE EXPLANATION
According to Reto Hollenstein while working out the lactic acid that had accumulated over the course of the stage: I did not have the legs for such a technical and dangerous final. But I am convinced that itll go better in the difficult mountain stages to come. We fought all day against a strong headwind, and even though the rain held off mostly, we used a lot of energy. In the final kilometers, it was extremely nervous and you had to give everything not to be split off.
THE EXLIMATION
As given by Mathias Frank: Danilo Wyss told me that the finale would be a mere formality. Fortunately, the rain spared us otherwise there would have been serious damage with this circuit and then at the finish.
THE FACT OF THE DAY
Argentine Maximilliano Richeze (Etixx-Quickstep) took the victory ahead of teammate Fernando Gaviria thanks to their ideal positioning that allowed them to negotiate perfectly the unhelpful and dangerous right hand bend that came with just 100 meters to go to the line.
THE ANALYSIS
Rik Verbrugghe, sports manager for IAM Cycling, gave his assessment: We were not well placed for the final. I dont understand why they would have such a dangerous corner so close to the finish line. I am happy not to have to lament any resulting injuries to our riders. After being heavily rained on these past few stages, the guys needed a break. However, the headwind ended up making this transition stage tough enough. For tomorrow, the first real mountain challenges will change the game.
THE WEATHER
Rain is forecasted for the Furka and the Gotthard passes, and is also expected to be present for the final 10 kilometer climb that has some very steep sections, which vary between 8 and 11% gradients, taking the riders up to Cari high above the town of Faido in the Italian Ticino region of Switzerland.
Race Pictures – BettiniPhoto2016
