Nibali takes second place

Manama : Bahrain Merida Pro Cycling Team were stunned to hear the news that veteran Italian Michele Scarponi an idol, teammate and friend of many in the world of cycling was killed on Saturday after colliding with a van while out training on his bike as the team compete in the Tour of Croatia.

The latest stage came with plenty of action in the final 7kms on the final climb to Učka, just before finish line, three top riders were fighting to take the stage win: Vincenzo Nibali, Caja Rural Jaime Roson and CCC Sprandi Polkowice rider Jan Hirt. The Spanish rider took victory and Bahrain’s Vincenzo Nibali passed the finish line in as runner up. Jaime Roson Caja Rural took over the leading position in general classification omn the Tour of Croatia.

Nibali was first overall in classification after the latest stage climb. 

After the start in Poreč and just before Pazin, a breakaway of three riders was formed with a 1 minute, 30 second gap. Also the first climb to Učka was leaded by the three riders, while Bahrain Merida Team was in the front of the peloton. 

The climb was followed by a long descent to the coast of Kvarner Bay, then another climb to Kastav and from there race led to the city centre of Rijeka. In Opatija, right on the coast began the final and decisive climb back to Učka, and that’s where the group became compact.

Bahrain Merida riders showed excellent performance in giving support to Nibali, with the goal of keeping the first position in general classification after the stage, that might be decisive for the whole race.

After the stage, Sport Director Paolo Slongo commented on the sad news of Scarponi’s death and the latest stage: “Scarponi had been Vincenzo’s teammate for the last three years and he was very important for him. We spent together training camps, many times with his family and wonderful twins too. We shared with him a lot of moments.” 

“The news shocked all of us  and we’re very sad, but our job - that was Michele’s too - is racing and so we started today’s stage of Tour of Croatia anyway. Maybe with a knot in our stomach, but this is part of our job. 

“I can’t say that this news influenced the performance of riders today, but for sure the mood of Vincenzo above all was not one of the best, but I don’t know if this influenced the victory or not.

“Today’s winner was really strong and he deserved to take the stage. At the finish they were three riders fighting for the first place and Vincenzo is not so fast. Anyway he tried to sprint, but he was second. 

“What it’s important according to me ahead of next aims is that the team worked very well and that rode full speed on the climb”.

Cycling world reacts

• “There are no words. A great person and a great cyclist has left us. R.I.P Michele Scarponi.” Alejandro Valverde (Movistar)

•  “Devastated to hear the news about Scarponi. Can’t believe it. My thoughts with all his friends, family and team.” Geraint Thomas (Team Sky)

•  “Our thoughts and prayers go to the family, friends and team of Michele Scarponi, who passed away this morning in a traffic incident.” Quick-Step Floors

• “Your smile will last forever. Ciao Michele Scarponi. Our deepest sorrow to his family and Astana Team from all Team Bahrain-Merida.” Bahrain-Merida

•  “So difficult to believe...” UAE- Team Emirates