Óscar Orts third on the first stage of Bizkaiko Itzulia

The Bizkaiko Itzulia kicked off a new edition from Balmaseda as usual. The 95-kilometre opening day featured a fast-paced stage in which Óscar Orts took third place in the sprint behind the breakaway.

The stage started under a strong heat that gradually decreased. The high pace of the bunch prevented to see big breakaways during the first kilometers and it was not until the 30th kilometer of the stage when the first breakaway was formed. The bunch did not let the advantage of the escapees increase too much and always had the group under control. Halfway through the stage and in the middle of the ascent to San Cosme (3rd) the gap was reduced even further and shortly after the descent the main group was grouped together again.

Shortly after, two riders attacked and quickly opened up 30 seconds on the big group. Then the chain of short but demanding climbs to be overcome in the final kilometres of the day began. The bunch tried to catch up with the escapees, but they were unable. The leading duo reached the finish line 43 seconds ahead. Óscar Orts managed to lead the big group with a powerful sprint that earned him third place and best young rider.

“It was an intense and fast race. You could see that there were nerves and everyone wanted to be in front. The feeling was very good and we are looking forward to more in the next stages. The team was sensational”, said Óscar Orts at the end of the first stage of the race.