Tom Pidcock made a successful return from illness at the Andorra MoraBanc Clàssica. The British rider from the Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team prevailed over Carlos Verona and Sepp Kuss on the final climb to Coll de la Botella. The final climb stretched over 11.4 kilometres with an average gradient of seven per cent. Pidcock had withdrawn from the Tour de Suisse just over a week earlier due to illness. The 25-year-old explained after the race that the victory in Andorra had been an important sign following a difficult few weeks. All three riders on the podium are based in the Pyrenean nation, which gave the race special significance. In Verona and Kuss, Pidcock had to hold off two riders who are also among the strongest climbers in their respective teams.
Tactical support for Tom Pidcock in the final
At the crucial moment, Tom Pidcock benefited from the support of his team-mate Chris Harper. The Australian helped prompt Verona to launch an attack in order to catch up with the duo from the Pinarello-Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team. This move enabled Pidcock to attack at just the right moment and secure victory. “It wasn’t easy; it was certainly a hard-fought race. But it’s lovely to be able to raise my hands in the air, however difficult it was,” said Tom Pidcock at the finish. The Briton emphasised that the teamwork had paid off. Every rider had played their part and given their all throughout the day. This unity had been crucial to their success.
A tough few weeks ahead of the comeback
Tom Pidcock spoke openly about the problems that had led to his withdrawal from the Tour de Suisse. The intense training workload at this stage of the season had taken its toll. The team had tried to optimise every aspect, which had ultimately led to him becoming overworked. The additional training phase had been necessary, and it was encouraging to see that some of it was already paying off. The illness came at an inopportune time, as preparations for the Tour de France were in their crucial phase, according to Pidcock.
A look ahead to the Tour de France
Pidcock’s main goal this season is the Tour de France, where he is aiming for at least one stage win, whilst also competing for the general classification. This dual strategy requires a careful balance between the two major objectives. Tom Pidcock has already shown in the past that he is capable of playing a part in Grand Tours, both in the battle for stage wins and in the general classification. His victory in Andorra is now confirmation that he is back in form following his break due to illness. However, it remains to be seen whether he can achieve both his goals for the world’s biggest cycling race. He intends to use the time remaining until the start of the Tour to fine-tune the final details of his preparations.
Leon Weidner
Working student
