Our junior became the first Spaniard to triumph at the Swiss race.
Diego Lopez capped off a great week of racing for Soudal Quick-Step U19 by sealing the overall title at the 50th edition of the Grand Prix Rüebliland, one of the most important events on the U19 calendar.
The 18-year-old, runner-up at the Boucle de l’Oise just two weeks ago, showed remarkable consistency over the four days of the event, which saw him enter the last stage in third overall. A fantastic ride on the hilly course around Wohlen - backed by a superb team effort - helped the Spaniard enjoy a surge up the rankings and finish at the top of the leaderboard, where he was followed by his teammate Victor Devos, who concluded just one second behind. Stage two winner Vic De Smet (4th), Gal Stare (7th) and Mathis Vandenheede (9th) rounded out the team’s fantastic week in Switzerland.
It’s been a really good week for us and we enjoyed every moment of it.
“Taking the overall victory means a lot to me, especially at this point in the season, and the fact that I’m the first Spanish rider to win this race is the cherry on the top. I’m really proud of what we achieved together and very happy with the way the whole squad performed in this race, which is so prestigious in the junior ranks.”
“Having five of our six riders inside the top ten overall says a lot about the amazing work we’ve done here. A special mention has to go to Jakub, whose work has been exceptional. Thanks to him and to the whole team, we took all these fantastic results here at the Grand Prix Rüebliland”, an elated Diego said after the podium ceremony.
Photo credit: ©Wout Beel
