"I have to sleep upright, face up; I can barely move" - Despite consequences of recent crashes, Isaac del Toro makes it onto podium in stage 4 of Itzulia

Mexican cyclist Isaac del Toro (UAE Emirates - XRG) once again showed the best of his legs with a second place finish in the fourth stage of the Itzulia Basque Country. He was only surpassed by his teammate, the Portuguese João Almeida, who becomes the new leader of the race after his solo.

"It was a great effort from the team. These stages are very difficult because of the work and very nerve-wracking. but João Almeida is in great shape and knew how to fight until the end and win. Hats off to the team for winning," said Del Toro after the race.

The 21-year-old Mexican will not compete in the overall standings due to the effects of recent crashes, one suffered at the GP Miguel Indurain last Saturday and another in the second stage of the Itzulia.

"I'm recovering from the crash at the GP Miguel Indurain. I'm feeling better from those knocks, but I also crashed on Tuesday during the second stage and my right side is bruised. I have to sleep upright, face up; I can barely move," said the recent winner of the Milano-Torino race.

Asked about the team's strategy for defending João Almeida's yellow jersey, the Mexican cyclist bridled. "How are we going to defend our lead? The director will be the one to decide what needs to be done to win the yellow jersey," he concluded.