Bahrain Victorious Looks to Continue Momentum at Tour de Pologne

Team Bahrain Victorious is set to compete in the 80th Tour de Pologne, following their successful performance at the Tour de France. With the World Championships just around the corner, the team is eager to continue their stage racing campaign.

The 7-day race features a diverse range of terrain, including a crucial 16.6 km time trial that will determine the overall General Classification (GC). The course offers opportunities for all types of riders, with three stages for sprinters, three uphill finishes, and challenges for time trialists and “Classics” riders.

Lead Sports Director Michal Golaś commented on the race, stating: “It’s a classic parcours; three hard days, three sprints, and a time trial. It’s a pretty balanced route and should be a battle between time trialists and ‘Classics’ riders like Matej Mohorič, who will hope to pick up bonuses by winning stages and then do a decent TT.”

Mohorič, who secured a memorable stage victory at the Tour de France, will be the team’s GC leader. He has previously tasted success in Poland in 2019. He will be supported by road captain Damiano Caruso, making his return to the race since 2014, and the team’s newest addition, Antonio Tiberi.

Golaś spoke highly of the team, stating: “Our team is very strong. We want to keep the momentum from taking three wins at the Tour de France, and with Matej as our leader, we should do well in the GC and challenge for some stages.”

The battle for overall victory will begin on Sunday, with a challenging stage featuring two categorized climbs before a summit finish. Stage 3 will also be arduous, with a hilly route and an uphill finish that averages 9% gradient and peaks at 15%.

The GC contenders will have one last opportunity to create time gaps before the S6 time trial, with Stage 6 featuring over 3000m of elevation gain and a flat ITT that favors time trial specialists.

The remaining stages are designed for the sprinters, and young prospect Matevž Govekar will have the chance to shine. Golaś expressed confidence in Govekar’s abilities and highlighted the experience of teammates Andrea Pasqualon and Kamil Gradek.

With a well-rounded team, Bahrain Victorious aims for at least a podium finish in the overall standings and stage wins throughout the race.

The 80th Tour de Pologne will take place from July 29th to August 4th.