Kopecky blasts off to brilliant start in Bulgaria with second in prologue

Czech first-year professional Matyas Kopecky came within seconds of his first senior victory for Team Novo Nordisk at the Tour of Bulgaria today with the 19-year-old finishing in second place in the prologue. The ride also earned him the White young riders jersey.

The short one-kilometer course was perfect for an explosive rider like Kopecky and teammate Hamish Beadle who narrowly missed out on the podium, finishing in 5th place.

Matyas Kopecky:

“I was looking forward to this race after the big races we just completed. This technical prologue suited me and I had my eye on it. It’s a pity I was beaten by the last rider to start but second is a good place and I’m happy with my performance and form. To start in the white jersey is super exciting and I’m looking forward to tomorrow. We will keep fighting the next days.”

“To achieve a second podium in my debut season is just unbelievable and to do out while we’re out here Driving Change in Diabetes and trying to inspire people makes it even more special.”

Head sports director Massimo Podenzana:

“We knew that Matyas had a great chance of a good result on the prologue today and maybe even the victory, so to come so close is not a surprise and it’s a fantastic start for us.”

“Matyas is still developing, but we know all about his ability and his cyclocross background means he is suited very well to this kind of short, explosive effort. Hamish also produced a very good performance and you could say we’re off to a dream start for our first appearance in Bulgaria.”