Pau Martí secured back-to-back success for the team at the Tour du Rwanda, winning Stage 2 in Huye after another tactically sharp and cohesive team performance.
Following Itamar Einhorn’s opening stage victory, the team entered the day focused on defending the yellow jersey while remaining alert for further opportunities. The stage unfolded at a steady tempo, with an early breakaway allowed a controlled advantage before Finlay Tarling hit the front for NSN Cycling Team, working alongside Team Eritrea, and put in a huge effort to bring the race back together ahead of the decisive finale.
As the race approached the final climb, the original plan centered around Einhorn contesting the sprint. However, midway up the ascent, he communicated that he did not feel strong enough to fight for the win. The team reacted immediately.
Moritz Kretschy lifted the pace on the climb to stabilize the situation and deliver Martí into a strong position near the front. From there, Zac Marriage completed the final phase of the lead-out, ensuring Martí was perfectly placed to launch his sprint in Huye.
The Spaniard responded with composure and power, finishing off the job to secure a second consecutive stage win for the team.
“It was an incredible day and I’m really happy with the win,” said Martí. “The team did an amazing job from the start, we controlled the race and adapted quickly in the final. I just had to finish it off in the last few hundred meters.”
Sports Director Lahav Davidzon praised the execution across both stages.
“I am very satisfied. It’s not only that we won for the second time in a row, but the way we achieved it over the last two days, with outstanding teamwork.”
“I’m happy that we kept the leader’s jersey and gained bonus seconds. Now our focus is on defending it. There is still a lot of work ahead and it’s far from over, but I’m confident we can win this race. And of course, we strongly believe that Itamar can fight for at least one more sprint victory.”
With two stage wins secured and the yellow jersey defended, NSN Cycling Team continues its Tour du Rwanda campaign in control, but fully aware that the hardest days of the race still lie ahead.