Development Team Kicks Off Season in Rhodes

The 2025 Visit South Aegean Islands Tour kicked off yesterday with a 180.2 km stage from Rhodes to Koskinou. Fast and tactical, the opening stage featured strong crosswinds and a decisive highway climb, making positioning crucial and setting the tone for an exciting race.  

“Our goal was simple—ride smart, stay safe, and focus on teamwork,” said Daniel Holt, sports manager of the Team Novo Nordisk development team. “We planned to conserve energy for the first 75 km, brace for the crosswinds in the next 50 km, and then set up a leadout for Hjalte or whoever felt strongest.”  

Juanjo Lopez, making his debut with the squad, was the first from the team to finish, followed closely by Hjalte Knudsen, Przemek Kotulski, and Jeffe Beets, who pushed hard on the main climb but narrowly missed making the key split.  

“Overall, the team executed the plan well and gained valuable race experience,” Holt added. “There’s still work to do, but this was a solid first step into the season. Tomorrow’s stage to Salakos will be another chance to build on today’s efforts.”

Photo credit: Nassos Triantafyllou