Landa Optimistic for Itzulia: "It Could Be an Open Race"

The cyclist from Álava expresses satisfaction after the Bilbao time trial and is confident in his chances in a race with many favorites and bonus seconds at stake.

Generic image of a cyclist's hand on handlebars during a race.
IA

Generic image of a cyclist's hand on handlebars during a race.

Alavés cyclist Mikel Landa is optimistic about the upcoming Itzulia race, following the Bilbao time trial, anticipating an open and highly contested competition with numerous favorites and bonus seconds in play.

The Soudal Quick Step rider finished the inaugural Itzulia time trial in eighteenth position in Bilbao, 55 seconds behind the winner, Paul Seixas. This result has allowed him to stay close to his direct rivals in the general classification, which has left him satisfied.

"I am happy with the time trial because I managed to be among the best, and that is important."

Mikel Landa · Cyclist
Looking ahead to the rest of the competition, Landa is optimistic and anticipates a very competitive race. There is a whole week left and many bonus seconds are at stake, many favorites. Therefore, he believes it could be an open race. His goal is clear: to fight for a stage win and a prominent position in the general classification, which keeps him motivated.

"It will be difficult to be on the podium, but day by day we will see what happens."

Mikel Landa · Cyclist
The cyclist from Murgia has confessed that he really likes the Aralar stage and has good memories of the Bergara one. Despite his ambition, Landa is aware of the challenge's difficulty. He wants to be among the best in the general classification, but acknowledges that there are very good riders. He admits it will be difficult to be on the podium, but that day by day they will see what happens.
Regarding the victory of young Paul Seixas, 19, the performance of the French cycling prodigy has not surprised Landa. No, it hasn't surprised me, he has already shown a lot this season and last year. He expected some favorite to be up there, if it wasn't him it would be Del Toro or Ayuso.