In a thrilling opening stage of the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana, Biniam Girmay secured a remarkable victory, marking his first win in over a year and a dream debut for his new team, NSN Cycling. But this win was just the tip of the iceberg in a race filled with drama and strategic maneuvers.
Girmay's triumph was made even more impressive by the fact that he narrowly clinched the win in a reduced bunch sprint, showcasing his team's strength. Meanwhile, Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe and Remco Evenepoel put on a display of sheer power, thanks to a late attack by the young Italian sensation, Giulio Pellizzari.
The race came alive when Red Bull took control late, attacking on the day's sole climb, the Category 3 Puerto de los Madroños. With around 18 kilometers remaining, Pellizzari was unleashed, creating a tense situation for the other teams.
An early breakaway attempt by Mats Wenzel and Diego Pablo Sevilla was joined by Danny van der Tuuk and Lewis Adam, but their efforts were short-lived. The race settled into a stalemate for over 100 kilometers, but the gap never exceeded three minutes, making a successful breakaway unlikely.
As the race approached the crucial climb, the peloton's pace visibly increased. Van der Tuuk claimed the opening bonus at the top, but the team cars' presence signaled the bunch's imminent catch. Indeed, Wenzel and Sevilla were soon swept up.
Red Bull's strategy became clear as they tore the race apart, leaving only 30 riders in the front group, including Evenepoel, Pellizzari, and former Valenciana winner Aleksandr Vlasov. Notable absentees were João Almeida and Mads Pedersen.
And here's where it gets controversial. Red Bull's tactics put their rivals in a tricky spot. Chasing Pellizzari would give Evenepoel a free ride to the top of the GC, but waiting meant letting Pellizzari gain an advantage. The chasers chose to wait, but the pursuit was more challenging than expected, even on flat roads.
Despite the combined efforts of Bahrain Victorious, Ineos Grenadiers, and NSN, Pellizzari was only caught after an epic chase along the coast and through Torreblanco's streets. Ineos' Ben Turner initiated the sprint, but Girmay, shadowing him closely, proved unstoppable. His former teammate, Marit, confirmed Girmay's unique speed, stating, "Once he hits top speed, he's impossible to pass."
NSN's win continues their successful streak, but Girmay's lead is likely to be short-lived as the overall battle intensifies. Stage two's time trial will be crucial, with Evenepoel expected to dominate, aiming for his third individual victory in less than a week.
As the race unfolds, one can't help but wonder: Was Red Bull's strategy a stroke of genius or a risky move that could have backfired? What are your thoughts on their controversial tactics? Share your opinions in the comments below!
