After a brave attack on the last climb and a crash in the finale: Aleksandr Vlasov concludes the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana in 5th overall
The 5th and final stage of the Vuelta a la Comunitat Valenciana took the peloton over 93km from Paterna to Valencia and featured two categorized climbs. After a perfect lead out by his BORA - hansgrohe team mates, Aleksandr Vlasov launched his attack on the second and hardest climb of the day. Only the GC contenders were able to follow, a group of nine riders formed up and together they made it to the final 3km. With a late attack, R. Costa secured the stage and overall victory. Aleksandr Vlasov was involved in a crash within the final two kilometers and was unable to engage in the sprint for bonus seconds and the overall podium. Vlasov remained unhurt, lost one position in the overall and finished the race in 5th.
Following mild symptoms and a positive test for Covid-19, Lennard Kämna wasn't able to start today's stage.
Result
01. R. Costa 2:07:16
02. T. Arensman +0:00
03. S. Battistella +0:07
29. A. Vlasov +0:21
General Classification
01. R. Costa 19:10:06
02. G. Ciccone +0:16
03. T. Geoghegan Hart +0:19
05. A. Vlasov +0:25
From the Finish Line
“A short but tough day! All went very well and according to our strategy until the final 2km. It was hectitc, everyone was attacking, the road was a bit slippery and so we had a small crash. Very unfortunate as I felt very good and still had some chances for the GC. Even though the luck wasn’t on our side today, I’m very happy with my shape and confident for the next races. I also want to thank the team - they really did a great job here!”Aleksandr Vlasov
“Our plan was to attack on the final climb and try everything to move up in the GC with Aleksandr Vlasov. The boys were committed to that plan, rode very strong and did a perfect lead out for Aleks on the last climb. A small group of GC contenders sprinting for the bonus seconds at the finish was exactly what we wanted to achieve. Unfortunately Aleks was involved in a crash and out of contention for the overall podium. In the end we had a bit of tough luck and didn’t win. But the boys showed a brave, strong and committed race! This race showed that we are on the right track and gives us confidence for our next goals.” Enrico Gasparotto, Sports Director