"His podium finish is the best result we have ever achieved as a team in this race" - BORA-hansgrohe delighted to see Aleksandr Vlasov finish 3rd at the Clasica San Sebastian

Heading onto the day's final climb at the Clasica San Sebastian, Aleksandr Vlasov was part of a select, three-man group alongside Pello Bilbao and Remco Evenepoel. Although Vlasov was forced to settle for third, BORA-hansgrohe remain delighted at his performance on the day.

"We approached the San Sebastian Classic with some uncertainty because the guys came here either after a long break from racing or, like Bob for example, straight after the Tour," BORA - hansgrohe sports director, Rolf Aldag tells the team's official website immediately following the conclusion of the race, which saw Evenepoel secure a record-equalling third race victory.

"Aleks rode his last race at the Giro, but he felt very good today and the team tried to support him when the race went into the mountains, where Evenepoel finally attacked," Aldag analyses. "Aleks was able to keep up quite well, but unfortunately he couldn't keep up with Evenepoel and Bilbao on the final climb."

Nevertheless, third place is an impressive result for Vlasov, one which makes history for the BORA - hansgrohe set up. "But as far as I know, his podium finish is the best result we have ever achieved as a team in this race. Of course you always hope to win from a group of three, but this result is still a very good re-entry for Aleks," concludes Aldag.