Planet picks up where Poli left off in stage 2 in Sicily

French puncher Charles Planet shook off the last effects of a period of sickness on stage two of the Giro di Sicilia by storming into the breakaway for Team Novo Nordisk.

The most aggressive rider of the 2019 Tour du Pologne has had a challenging last two seasons and picking up the breakaway baton from teammate Umberto Poli took Planet back to the front of a big race and restocked the coffers with confidence.

Head sports director Massimo Podenzana:

“Charles needs some more days like this, not only for his racing rhythm, but also for his confidence and we’re all happy that he spent a good day out front today. He was one of the guys driving the break on and that’s great to see him coming back into the team and riding well.”

Charles Planet:

“I haven’t made a secret that it’s been tough to come back into the bunch after my crash last year. I think it’s important to be open and honest and despite feeling good physically and having good numbers, I’m jumpy and nervous in the bunch. So getting out front in the breakaway and in the open was really good for me today.”

“The move didn’t go until after 25km and I saw it going and thought I need to bridge across. A couple of guys followed on my wheel and it tuned out to be a really good group. That’s two days in a row we’ve been in the breakaway, getting the basics done and being visible.”

Photo credit: Sprint Cycling Agency