The 75th edition of the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana (2.Pro), a challenging 5-day stage race through the three provinces of the Valencian Community, concluded on February 4 with success for Bahrain Victorious.

Santiago Buitrago capped off the week finishing on the podium in Valencia, securing second place overall, just 14 seconds behind the winner, McNulty (UAE), and earning the white jersey for best young rider.

The 24-year-old Colombian cyclist showcased his climbing skills, particularly on the penultimate stage where he clinched second place atop Alto del Miserat. Reflecting on his performance, Buitrago expressed his joy, stating, “I’m very happy about my first race of the season, and also for the team that performed exceptionally well. Starting the new season on such a high note motivates me for the rest of the season.”

During the intense final stage from Bétera to Valencia, spanning 93 km on a mid-mountain course, Bahrain Victorious controlled the race with the goal of defending the General Classification podium. Despite attempts by Mohorič and Bilbao to launch attacks, the day’s breakaway survivor, Will Barta (Movistar), secured a solo victory on the unprecedented finish at the Port of Valencia. In the peloton sprint, Matej Mohorič emerged as the team’s best-placed rider, securing a good 5th place.

Bahrain Victorious concluded the Volta Valenciana with outstanding achievements, including Matej Mohorič’s stage 2 victory, Santiago Buitrago’s remarkable second place on the queen stage, his overall second place in the general classification, and the white jersey for best young rider. Pello Bilbao, securing 6th place in the GC, Rainer Kepplinger in 8th, and also Nicolò Buratti could celebrate on the podium in Valencia, as they contributed to the team’s title as the best team of the race.

Sports Director Roman Kreuziger expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing that the main objectives of winning stages and securing podium position have been achieved. Despite challenges with Gradek and Arashiro forced to abandon the race, the team’s collective effort resulted in victory in the team classification. Kreuziger noted, “What is more important is that we saw the guys are staying well, we know which level we are, and we can go quite confidently to the next races.”