At a ceremony attended by some of the representatives of the race’s partner organisations, the mayor of Portimão, Álvaro Bila, was the first to “hit the pedal” in terms of words.

“I want to say how proud I am that Portimão is hosting the 51st edition of the Tour of the Algarve. It’s with great pleasure that we’ll be taking the start in two days’ time and that we’re presenting the race here today. We hope it will be another great edition”, he said.

Also present was the president of Turismo do Algarve, André Gomes. He stressed that the Algarve is a showcase for a region that “has much more to offer than sun and beach”.

“We’re delighted to be kicking off here in Portimão. This is another good example of a good marriage between a sport and a territory”, he said.

From cycling to management, Cândido Barbosa is making his debut at the Volta ao Algarve as president of the Portuguese Cycling Federation, having won the race as a cyclist on two occasions.

“It’s a different position. It’s a role of great responsibility, not just for the Volta ao Algarve, but for all of cycling in Portugal”, he said, before thanking all the mayors and sponsors who contributed to the organisation of the sporting event.

João Almeida is one of the Portuguese riders taking part in the 51st Algarve Tour, and one of the candidates for the final victory, in his own words.

“I think I’m one of the candidates to win the race, but there are runners who seem to be stronger. The hardest part is done, which is the training, now it’s time to focus on the race. I don’t feel any extra pressure, just the normal responsibility of any race” he said.

While praising the list of participants – which “demonstrates the importance” of the competition – the UAE Emirates athlete didn’t hide the fact that it’s special to run in Portugal: “It’s always a pleasure to run in Portugal and receive the support of the people”.

Joining João Almeida were Filippo Ganna and Julian Alaphilippe, two of the most renowned cyclists who will be riding the roads of the Algarve over the next few days.

The former, an Italian from INEOS Grenadiers, confessed that he would like to win the time trial on the final day, but admitted that it will be a “very difficult” stage, despite being a two-time world champion in the category.

“It’s going to be a good race, I hope we can put on a good show for the fans”, he said.

Alaphilippe, the Frenchman from Tudor, is racing on Portuguese soil for the first time, but he already knows the Algarve.

“I’m very happy to be here, my first Volta ao Algarve. I’ve seen the race on TV, I know it’s very beautiful and that Portugal is a great country. I’m looking forward to the race and to gaining pace”, said the two-time World Champion.

Credits: Supplied Image;

The Volta ao Algarve takes place from February 19 to 23. The first stage starts in Portimão and finishes in Lagos. The final day is reserved for the time trial in Alto do Malhão.

SCHEDULE

19/02 | Portimão – Lagos | 192,2 km | 11h50-16h30

20/02 | Lagoa – Fóia | 177,6 km | 12h00-16h20

21/02 | Vila Real de Santo António – Tavira | 183,5 km | 12h00-16h20

22/02 | Albufeira – Faro | 175,2 km | 12h15-16h30

23/02 | Salir – Malhão (CRI) | 19,6 km | 13h15