The Murcian finished fourth in the Saitama Criterium, won by Philipsen, in his penultimate race as a pro
Three years later, the Japanese public could finally enjoy the Saitama Criterium, attended by some of the best cyclists in the world. The victory went to the Belgian Jasper Philipsen (24 years old). Alpecin’s, who ran in Saitama within the ‘Legends of the Criterium’ team, complemented by Mark Cavendish and host Yuyika Arashiro, triumphed near the Saitama Arena.
He did it after being the strongest in a reduced sprint ahead of Jonas Vingegaard, who wore his yellow jersey he won in the last Tour de France, and Geraint Thomas. Alejandro Valverde, one of the most acclaimed by the avid Japanese public, finished in fourth place in what was his penultimate race after a storied 21-year career with the elite. A Valverde delighted to receive the affection of the people wherever he goes stretches out the year and his last stop is the Giro de Rigoberto Urán in Costa Rica, scheduled for November 27th.
The Murcian had a great time in Saitama yesterday, coming on the attack and forming a nice break with Vincenzo Nibali, both retired this year. Valverde was supported by his teammates Enric Mas, Imanol Erviti and José Joaquín Rojas. In total there were seven Spaniards present at the Criterion: in addition to the four mentioned three who run in Japanese teams such as Paco Mancebo, José Vicente Toribio and Benja Prades. With every step in the Saitama Arena (a total of 17 on a 3.5-kilometer circuit), the Japanese fans burst into applause, as did those outside the pavilion. Saitama was a party and the riders enjoyed themselves on the bike: the German Simon Geschke, in the mountain polka dot jersey, also won in Japan in this category and Movistar was the best team.
“I have yet to see exactly what my role will be. I am not going to be a director, but I am going to be a bit of a link between riders, directors and staff. I will be with everyone at once. I will spend a few days before different races to trying to help with what I can. I think my experience can be constructive,” Valverde said yesterday about his future at Movistar. “I don’t feel anything strange. I have continued to train and I am very happy. I am the same as always, but calmer, enjoy everything a little more,” added the legendary Las Lumbreras runner.
Source: La Verdad
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