Giulio Ciccone blasts to victory on the final stage of Vuelta a Burgos
The final 138km stage of this year’s race included three categorised climbs on the approach to the mountaintop finale at Lagunas de Neila. One week on from claiming victory at Clasica San Sebastián, Cicco knew today’s last climb was very well suited to him. The days breakaway were reeled back in just before the early slopes and it was time for Cicco to shine. On one of the steepest sections with three kilometres to go, Ciccone and Del Toro of UAE Emirates XRG launched an attack from a reduced bunch, which included the race leader. The Italian drilled the pace with 800 metres to go to distance Del Toro and cross the finish line solo to take his third victory of the season.
From Giulio..
Today was the toughest stage and the one I wanted to win from the start. It wasn't an easy week because, with the crash on the first day and the heat, I felt a little uncomfortable during the first few stages. But today was a big goal for us; it was a great test, let's say. In the end, the goal was to win, and we did it.
I was a little disappointed a few days ago, two days ago, when I didn't manage to win. Today, was a good day. I enjoy racing with such strong riders like Del Toro more because you always have a point of reference, so I always prefer having very strong opponents.
Anyway, today I knew I had the advantage of not being in the general classification, so I could have a better chance for the stage, and I took advantage of the situation. I knew Del Toro had to go all out to win the general classification, and I took advantage of that. But with such a strong rider, it's always better not to wait for the sprint, so I tried to give it my all to get there first.
This has definitely been excellent preparation for what's to come. Now, a few days of recovery, and then we'll move forward, motivated to do well.
