Vuelta a Andalucia: Miguel Angel Lopez Claims Second Place in Alcalá la Real

Astana Qazaqstan rider Miguel Angel Lopez showed great determination in Stage 2 of the Vuelta a Andalucia, finishing in second place in Alcalá la Real. Lopez launched a powerful counterattack but fell just three seconds short of catching the solo leader Alessandro Covi.

“Well, it was a good try, and I am happy with the legs I had today. Indeed, my feeling was good, and I was motivated to try something in the end. I started my counterattack a bit from behind, but in a moment I almost caught the wheel of Covi. However, he stayed strong in front, and I finished second. I believe, I also paid a bit in the end because I lost a lot of energy chasing the peloton after my crash. Fortunately, I did not get any serious injury in that crash, but it was not easy to make my come back to the group. However, it was a good day for us, and I am looking forward to the next stages”, – explained Miguel Angel Lopez.

 

“It was our plan to try something in the final part, but we had to change our plans after that crash with some 50 kilometers to go. Miguel Angel lost some time for a bike change after his crash and afterwards it took time for him to get the group back. So in the final we did all we could and I believe Lopez still looked strong at the finish. We see how his form is progressing and we are still there for the fight for the General Classification”, – added Giuseppe Martinelli, Sports Director of Astana Qazaqstan Team.

With two stages completed, Miguel Angel Lopez currently sits in third place in the overall standings, just 8 seconds behind the new race leader Alessandro Covi. The Astana Qazaqstan Team is also leading the team classification of the race.

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