Miguel Moreira 7th in Markina

The second day of the Bizkaiko Itzulia began under the threat of rain, but in the end it did not show up. The stage developed normally, except for a brief situation of neutralization due to an accident on the road that had nothing to do with the race. The last climb to Gontzugarai (2nd) selected the peloton and Miguel Moreira was the best of the team in seventh position.

The stage started with a slower pace than usual and despite the different attack attempts during the stage, there were no major breakaways until after the halfway point of the day. The team tried to break the race on one of the first climbs, but control was tight in the bunch. Once the race was restarted after the neutralization, the first and only breakaway of the day was formed, with a maximum lead of 1’30”.

The pace increased again on the last climb. The main group chased the breakaway and a small group reached the sprint for the stage win. Miguel Moreira was seventh with Óscar Orts 15th, giving up the best young rider’s jersey by just one place.

“We are close to the goal, but we haven’t reached it yet. My legs are fine, but something in my stomach has been affecting me and my team-mates, which has made the first two stages difficult. We are still fighting to do our best, to show off our jersey and the sponsors who support us”, explained José Miguel Moreira after crossing the finish line.