Bahrain Victorious to Debut at Faun-Ardèche Classic and Faun Drôme Classic
# Bahrain Victorious Set for Debut at Faun-Ardèche and Faun Drôme Classics
This weekend promises to be a thrilling one for Bahrain Victorious as they navigate a complex schedule of racing. While a group of their riders takes part in the festive Opening Weekend in Belgium, another team is poised to make its debut at the Faun-Ardèche Classic and Faun Drôme Classic in France, captivatingly dubbed the “French Opening Weekend.”
Both events are crucial one-day races within the UCI ProSeries, known to challenge puncheurs and specialists in Classics with their demanding courses and intricate finales. The team’s strategy will be led by French cyclist Lenny Martinez, who will be bolstered by a well-rounded team featuring a mix of seasoned athletes, climbing experts, and promising young talent, including Slovenia’s Jakob Omrzel and 19-year-old Kasper Borremans from the Bahrain Victorious Development Team.
### Event Details
On Saturday, February 28, the 26th Faun-Ardèche Classic (1.Pro) sets off from Guilherand-Granges, covering a formidable 187.6 km route. The competition involves two long circuits spanning approximately 133 kilometers, followed by a challenging 35.5 km lap and a decisive 19 km circuit. A significant climb around kilometer 142 is anticipated to play a pivotal role in determining the race outcome, emphasizing the importance of strategic positioning.
The following day, March 1, the 14th Faun Drôme Classic (1.Pro) kicks off in Étoile-sur-Rhône, presenting another demanding 189 km course. This race starts with 2.5 laps on exposed terrain that includes two extensive 47 km circuits and a 28 km segment before tackling a final hilly lap. The opening 130 kilometers, primarily raced in open areas, will test teamwork and the riders’ awareness of wind exposure.
### Leadership Insights
Roman Kreuziger, Sports Director for Bahrain Victorious, shared his thoughts on the upcoming challenges: “We are approaching two very tough races with a very high level of competition. The start lists are strong, but I believe we have a good roster and we aim for a top-five result in both races.”
Kreuziger expressed confidence in Lenny Martinez, stating, “For some it might have seemed hard that he didn’t win last weekend, but for us it was actually perfect. He tested himself and raced without overthinking, which was exactly the plan.” This weekend, the focus will shift to a more tactical approach as Bahrain Victorious faces off against formidable competitors.
### Young Talent and Strategy
Kreuziger is keen to manage the workload of young riders like Omrzel, who will only participate on Saturday. “His goal is to stay around Lenny, regain his feeling in the bunch, and see how far he can go,” said Kreuziger. The team’s dynamic includes Edoardo Zambanini and Fran Miholjevic, who are eager to rejoin the racing circuit after a break.
In terms of strategy, Kreuziger noted that fresh team member Oliver Stockwell will replace Omrzel for the Drôme Classic. Stockwell’s abilities on flat and rolling terrain will be crucial, especially during the first part of the race where positioning is vital.
The weather forecast is favorable, a welcome change from past races in snowy conditions. As Kreuziger pointed out, maintaining team spirit and learning from previous experiences will be essential over the weekend. “Our goal is top five, but more importantly, I want us to race with the right spirit…if we execute our plan well, we won’t just be fighting for the top five — we can aim even higher.”
As Bahrain Victorious prepares for this demanding weekend, the cycling world watches eagerly, anticipating the potential showcase of talent that could unfold in the picturesque landscapes of Drôme.
