From Tuscany to Navarre for Team Novo Nordisk
30 March 2023
Another impressive performance last weekend in Italy has set Team Novo Nordisk up well to continue the progress in Spain this Saturday at the always challenging Gran Premio Miguel Indurain.
If it’s not the weather, it’s the parcours with the repeated climbs and the heavy presence of local history that contribute to the difficulty of the 68-year-old semi-classic that rips through the roads of Navarre. Spanish climber David Lozano will lead the line with 20-year-old Matyas Kopecky and Kiwi Hamish Beadle looking for opportunities.
“Last year we had snow and blizzards,” said General Manager Vassili Davidenko. “It was tough and although we will be hoping for better weather, we know that it will be a hard race once again.”
“Gran Premio Miguel Indurain is a great place for both Matyas and Hamish to gain more experience and continue their development. We’re making good progress this year and the other guys have been here before – they know what to expect. For our younger riders it’s another important step on the ladder and we will need to show strength and determination to do well on Saturday.”
Experienced Irishman Stephen Clancy makes his first appearance of 2023 at a race he knows well and completes the six-man team alongside Sam Brand and former Finnish national champion Joonas Henttala.
“As we get deeper into the season I’m starting feel a little better about my form,” said Lozano. “I’ve had a solid few days of training at home after the Tour of Taiwan, I feel ready to go again.”
The long travel definitely plays a part in the fatigue and I’m looking forward to racing at home and in Spain for the first time this seasons. Gran Premio Miguel Indurain is always a super hard race and let’s just say that this year I’m hoping for a little less snow than last time!”
Team Novo Nordisk at Gran Premio Miguel Indurain, Saturday 1st April:
Hamish Beadle (NZ, 24)
Sam Brand (GBR, 32)
Stephen Clancy (IRL, 30)
Joonas Henttala (FIN, 31)
Matyas Kopecky (CZ, 20)
David Lozano (ESP,34)