“There was a lot of pressure to deliver” – Caleb Ewan destroys opposition at Itzulia Basque Country

Caleb Ewan delivered a textbook sprint victory on Stage 2 of the Itzulia Basque Country, claiming his first win for INEOS Grenadiers in emphatic style. Backed by a flawless lead-out, the Australian made the most of a rare opportunity on a parcours suited to his strengths, and didn’t disappoint.

“This is the only stage I can win. So there was a lot of pressure, pressure to deliver today,” said a visibly relieved Ewan in his post-stage flash interview.

From start to finish, INEOS Grenadiers executed their plan with precision. “The team rode really great. We controlled the stage from the start and they were able to set me up well for the sprint,” Ewan said. “We knew we had to be at the front in the final. I was in fourth position in the last kilometre and in third position before the last corner. That was perfect. I was able to do my sprint.”

Remember, Ewan was one of the world’s best sprinters just a few years ago, as were INEOS one of the best teams. Now united together, this is a partnership that has immediately clicked.

The weather played its part too, with conditions remaining calm despite the potential threat of crosswinds. “With wind, this would have been a very difficult stage. There were many open sections, but fortunately no echelons. The harder the stage, the harder it is for me. I am glad that today was quite straightforward.”

With his sprint mission accomplished, Ewan’s focus now turns to supporting his teammates as the race hits the mountains. “Michael (Leonard) is in the top 10 of the general classification. He is doing very well and we are going for a good classification with him,” he said. “And we are also looking for more stage wins.

“The stage on Wednesday, for example, is something for Axel (Laurance) if he manages to survive the last climb. There will be more opportunities for our team.”