The Spanish stage race is the first race of the new season for the yellow and black brigade. The first stage, with three categorised climbs, didn’t stimulate much of an attack. The race only broke open halfway through. Several riders, including German Team Jumbo-Visma debutant Linda Riedmann, attacked.
On the last climb, the peloton broke up in many pieces and several riders took off. Team Jumbo-Visma fought for what it was worth and rode back to the front with Koster and Swinkels after a small group had separated from the peloton on the climb.
Koster: “This is an excellent way to start the season. Immediately taking a podium was a bit unexpected. The team has worked very hard today and that pays off. Karlijn came back after the last climb. It was great that she could launch the sprint for me – all credits to her. We want to go for a stage win this race and we were pretty close today. It took some getting used to, but after today, I’m back in the swing of things.
“The team showed that we can race well”, new team leader Carmen Small said. “The cooperation was good. Due to the hard work and good positioning we stayed out of danger. I am thrilled with Anouska’s podium place, but it makes me even happier to see how the riders of this team are willing and able to work for each other.”