Volta ao Algarve 2022 – Stage 2

The classical finish on Foia. This will be the first GC stage.

Foia

It is not a very difficult climb, but it is too hard for the sprinters and not hard enough for the pure climbers. Ethan Hayter won here in 2021, Evenepoel with a checky attack in 2020 and Pogacar in 2019. Normally, it is a GC rider with a good kick at then end that takes the stage.

Weather

We had potential crosswinds on the first stage. Tomorrow, the wind is calm and the weather is good too.

Contenders

Evenepoel has won here in the past with a cheeky attack. Far to often riders seem to give him a few meters, expecting others to close him down. He will attack – but I think people will follow.

INEOS are here with Hayter and Pidcock. Hayter is not in top-shape and Pidcock said in an interview he feels good. It has been barely two weeks ago since he won Worlds in CX. I like their options, and at the moment, I think Pidcock is the best of the two.

Battistella has been enjoying some early form. This is the type of finish I expect him to challenge for results this season. A top-5 would be very good.

Higuita won the nationals. He must be doing good. He packs a good punch given his stature – he will be tough to beat on the line. However, he does not win that often.

Gaudu had a brilliant year last season. He normally starts off well, but I do not think the finish is hard enough for him.

Coquard? can he cope with this. I think it is too hard.

McNulty has a good punch. He will look to put some seconds into Remco before the TT.

Barguil is a good uphill sprinter. He was good on Mallorca and will be even better here.

Who will win?

A will take a win for Tom Pidcock.