Spanish neo pro Pau Martí has continued his strong start to the season with third place at the Figueira Champions Classic to claim his first podium place this year.
After teammate Riley Sheehan was on the attack in the final 30 kilometres of the race, Martí had the legs to make it into the select group that went clear once Sheehan’s group was caught.
Although unable to follow eventual winner António Morgado (UAE Team Emirates – XRG) and runner-up Alex Aranburu (Cofidis) in the closing kilometres, Martí dug deep in the finale and was able to win the sprint for third place.
“It was a really fast race with the wind, and some rain at the beginning, but the team did a really good job,” explained Martí.
“Riley went into the move with two laps to go, but they were chased down. Fortunately, I was able to go with the lead group – I couldn’t follow the two guys when they attacked, but I’m really happy with third place and the job the team did.”
Following recent storms in Portugal, the race organisers were forced to adjust the original route, but conditions remained challenging. Strong winds shaped the race from the outset, with the first 30 minutes covered at a relentless average speed of 52 km/h as the peloton was immediately stretched.
As expected, the decisive moments came on the local finishing circuit. Sheehan was active and attentive to the key moves, following one of the strongest attacks two laps from the finish. However, that move was eventually brought back, setting the stage for the final showdown on the ascent of Enforca Cães.
Sports Director René Mandri was pleased with how the team executed its plan.
“Yes, we had a clear goal to get to the podium today with two leaders, Riley and Pau — both guys at the top of their game. Riley followed one of the strongest moves in the race two laps from the finish, but unfortunately they were brought back.
“Pau then did exactly what he had to do. He had the legs and went for the podium, which was our objective. It’s great to see a young rider step up like that and show his potential. It shows we have a rider for the future.”
The podium result continues a positive start to the European season for the team.