TNN face tough mountain test on Queen stage in Turkey

26 April 2024

The peloton took on the toughest stage yet in this year’s Presidential Tour of Turkey when it raced the queen stage from Kuşadası and finishing on a mountaintop in Manisa.

Unfortantely Team Novo Nordisk was dealt a blow early on when Matyas Kopecky didn’t start due to illness. Attention today was turned to the climbers, Peter Kusztor and David Lozano who led the team home in 53rd and 54th respectively.

General Manager, Vassili Davidenko:

“We always knew today was a big test so we’ve been saving Peter all week to keep him fresh for this climb. The first hour of racing was really high and it took a while for the breakaway to go. We wanted to have someone there but not at the expense of using so much energy.”

“Once we saw it took a while for it to go, it was time to position Peter and David for the climbs and after the guys did their job, it was about saving the legs for the last two stages. Matyas has gone home due to illness but these last two days will be important for Andrea so we’re changing our focus to that now to round out the successful tour we’ve had here so far.”

Peter Kusztor:

“I’ve been feeling good all week so I was optimistic about this stage. The boys did a really nice job all week going into breakaways and I could save myself for this stage. Today they helped me a lot, making sure I was well positioned. I actually had a really good pace up the climb, and I think I am in the best shape I have ever been but unfortunately it wasn’t enough to keep up with the front guys.”

“The level is very high now in the front group and the power you have to push to be there is really high. I had good legs for the last bit but when they kicked I couldn’t follow. We have two more days here to show ourselves once again and we’re looking to finish strong.”