Peñalver, 5th in the opening sprint of the Tour of Hungary

Team Polti Kometa got off to a good start at the Tour of Hungary, taking fifth place in the sprint with Manuel Peñalver thanks to good teamwork and attitude in the final part of the stage.

Everything showed that the peloton could break up on the long and flat route of the day, very exposed to the power of the wind, which blew with intensity in several points of the course. Four riders formed in the breakaway until, despite their persistence, they were neutralised on the final circuit.

There, David Martín did a great job to defend the team’s options, making sure that no new group left, and guiding a brave Manuel Peñalver in the final part of the race, against the great sprinters. The rider from Alicante avoided being closed, climbed up positions and was fifth in the victory of Welsford (Bora).

Álex Martín fell at the finish without suffering any serious injury and will be able to continue competing in the Tour of Hungary.

Manuel Peñalver: “It was a calm stage, although we were expecting a lot of nerves because of the wind. The finish on the circuit was very fast, the team’s work was spectacular and everyone’s involvement allowed us to achieve a great result. If we continue in this line, I think we can get the victory”.

Giovanni Ellena, sporting director: “I think that 5th place, although a great result, does not reward the great work of the team. But it is a very good result considering the high level of sprinters in the Tour of Hungary. My congratulations again for the way our riders work during the stage, we will try to achieve an even better result”.

Tomorrow the Tour of Hungary faces the second stage with 162 kilometres between Tokaj and Kazincbarcika, which includes several climbs but could be a new opportunity for the sprinters.