"It is clear that Tadej Pogacar is the strongest" - Impressive Mikel Landa 'best of the rest' on first summit finish of Volta a Catalunya 2024

Although Tadej Pogacar will rightfully take all the plaudits for his performance on stage 2 at the 2024 Volta a Catalunya, special mention must go to 'best of the rest', Mikel Landa.

“I am very satisfied, especially because I had not raced for a while,” the Soudal - Quick-Step leader and head of the 'Landismo' movement reflected in his post-stage interview with Cycling Pro Net. "I actually wanted to take it day by day, but I'm better than expected.”

Whilst Landa was an impressive second on the day in a performance that not only bodes well for his Volta a Catalunya prospects but also perhaps, Remco Evenepoel's Tour de France hopes, Tadej Pogacar was as mentioned, a clear winner on the day, taking victory by nearly a minute and a half.

“It was really cold today. I had problems with my hands in the final. It is clear that Pogacar is the strongest," Landa concludes. "Of course I would like to win a stage and finish on the podium. But it is important to take it one day at a time."