Winning start for Ulissi at Settimana Ciclista Italiana

The first stage of Settimana Ciclista Italiana , 157.6 km from Alghero to Sassari, saw Diego Ulissi take first place in a sprint.

 
UAE Team Emirates patiently monitored the race, staying safe in the main group. With the breakaway pulled back at 15km to go the race erupted on the Scala di Giocca. Here Ulissi, just 5km from the finish, crested the hill in third position, conserving energy for the final sprint in which he got the better of Alberto Bettiol (Italian national team) and Giovanni Aleotti (Bora-Hansgrohe).

Ulissi: “It was a demanding stage, with a tough finish that saw many quality riders contending for the victory. Today I felt good and I gave my best, also trying to attack on the climb. The last 500 meters, being slightly uphill, were perfect for my characteristics. My legs are good and I hope for a great week together with the whole team: the team did a great job today, supporting me all the way“.

Tomorrow the second stage will take the riders from Sassari to Oristano in 185.7km, with the last of the 3 Categorised climbs of the day set 60km from the finish.

Results 1st stage:
1.Diego Ulissi (UAE Team Emirates)
2.Alberto Bettiol (Italian National)
3. Giovanni Aleotti (Bora-Hansgrohe)

General classification after the 1st stage:
1.Diego Ulissi (UAE Team Emirates)
2.Alberto Bettiol (Italian National)
3. Giovanni Aleotti (Bora-Hansgrohe)