"I've seen him go from being a kid to a man. We have a very good relationship" - Cavendish on rivalry with Fernando Gaviria

On a thrilling day in Zipaquirá, Astana Qazaqstan Team's Mark Cavendish won the fourth stage of the Tour Colombia 2024. The British cyclist highlighted the importance of starting the season with a win. Particularly significant when he achieved it ahead of Colombian Fernando Gaviria, with whom he has maintained a rivalry for the last decade.

Cavendish praised the work of his teammate, Michael Morkov, who played a crucial role in his victory as he approached the final sprint. "We were really working both my team and Movistar. It cost a lot to reach the lead, it was a huge effort. I'm very happy with this victory," said the experienced rider, who added his 163rd win as a professional.

The Manx Missile emphasized the importance of taking the first win of the season, describing it as a good start for him and his team. Cavendish was pleased to get back to winning ways, especially after teammate Harold Tejada's initial victory in the first stage of the race.

Regarding his rivalry with Fernando Gaviria, Cavendish, 38, recalled clashes with the Colombian cyclist in Argentina a decade ago. "I remember Gaviria when he was just a kid; he beat me in Argentina 10 years ago. I've seen him go from being a kid to a man. We have a very good relationship. It's exciting to be here competing in a sprint with him," Cavendish concluded.