WorldTour
Volta ao Algarve: strong finish for Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe
Five days of intense racing in Portugal are behind the team – and with the Volta ao Algarve, the first stage races of the season come to a close.
At the finale, Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe once again delivered a united and determined team performance, confirming the versatility with which the squad had approached the week.
Sprint power on Saturday: Jordi Meeus second again
On the penultimate stage, Jordi Meeus once more demonstrated his strong early-season form. In a fast and hectic finale, the Belgian showed composure and assertiveness, positioned himself perfectly at the decisive moment and powered his way to second place.
Jordi Meeus sprints to second again
© Getty Images
Following his strong performance earlier in the week, it marks his second podium finish of the race – an important signal ahead of the upcoming Classics campaign, which kicks off in just a few days with Opening Weekend.
Attacking on Sunday: Florian Lipowitz in racing mode
On the final stage, Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe again took responsibility and actively raced for the outcome. With two riders in the overall Top 10, the team aimed to race offensively and put the favourites under early pressure.
Jan Tratnik first managed to make it into the breakaway of the day. Already on the opening ascent of the Alto do Malhão, Florian Lipowitz showed his attacking intentions. Shortly after, he bridged across to Tratnik and used his teammate’s pace-setting work to extend the lead.
Jan Tratnik and Florian Lipowitz in the lead group
© Getty Images
However, the group of favourites responded decisively, and Lipowitz was caught at the foot of the final climb, around three kilometres from the finish. It was a courageous move that shaped the finale and once again demonstrated that his build-up in form is heading in the right direction.
Florian Lipowitz on the attack
© Getty Images
Conclusion: Plenty of positives from the Algarve
The week in the Algarve served as an intense early-season benchmark. Five days featuring sprint finishes, demanding summit finishes and a challenging time trial provided valuable insights.
Two sprint podiums, solid performances against the clock and two riders in the overall Top 10 – the overall assessment is clearly positive and gives confidence heading into the upcoming races.
