Alessandro Pinarello delivered a strong performance on stage 2 of the Volta ao Algarve, finishing seventh on the summit of Alto da Fóia after a well-executed team effort.
The stage began at a controlled tempo, with an early breakaway never gaining a significant advantage. As the race approached the final 40 kilometres, the pace increased and positioning became crucial ahead of the decisive climb.
Both Marco Frigo and new signing Pinarello entered the final ascent in good position. On the technical run-in to the climb, the team stayed organised, setting up their leaders for the summit finish.
When the favourites attacked with four kilometres to go, Pinarello maintained his rhythm and held strong in the chasing group. With 400 metres remaining, he launched his sprint to win from the group and secure seventh place, finishing 29 seconds behind stage winner Juan Ayuso (Lidl-Trek).
“Today I felt good and I was well positioned on the harder part of the climb,” said Pinarello. “When the attacks came, I continued with my own rhythm because they had super legs.
“With 400 metres to go I attacked to win the sprint of the group. I hope to do a good time trial tomorrow.”
The result moves Pinarello into eighth place overall in the general classification, 39 seconds behind race leader Juan Ayuso, heading into the individual time trial.
Sports Director René Mandri was pleased with the collective performance.
“Marco and Alessandro both had the possibility to go for the best possible result today,” said Mandri. “Marco didn’t feel that great on the final climb and couldn’t follow the best riders, but Alessandro clearly had the legs. He already showed some good legs in training camp, and finishing seventh today shows his climbing potential.
“So we are super pleased with the result and the good fighting spirit he has.”
With a strong position in GC and the time trial to come, the team remains firmly in the fight at the Volta ao Algarve.