The 2025 Volta ao Algarve is of the highlights of the cycling calendar for us, especially as the first stage normally ends in Lagos with a great sprint finish. So we had high expectations for the opening stage from Portimão to Lagos last week, but it ended in unforeseen chaos!
As the peloton approached the finish line, a mistake at a crucial roundabout led the majority of riders onto the wrong route, causing them to miss the official finish. For those watching, like us, we were left bewildered as two races unfurled with rides on both sides of the Avenida!
The mix-up left Filippo Ganna, with an easier than expected sprint finish and the Ineos Grenadiers rider raised his arms in celebration well before he crossed the line. Due to the confusion, race organizers made the unprecedented decision to annul the stage results, stating that "sporting truth did not prevail."
Despite that chaos on the opening stage, the rest of the Volta was exciting. The final stage featured a decisive individual time trial with Jonas Vingegaard clinching both the stage victory and the overall title.
The Volta ao Algarve has long been a cornerstone of early-season European racing, attracting top-tier talent and enthusiastic crowds to Portugal's southernmost region. Established in 1960, the race has evolved into a prestigious event on the UCI ProSeries calendar. The 2025 edition was no exception, but next year we are hoping for a little less drama and error!
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