Turul Romaniei. Ivan Smirnov claims second place at the third stage

The trainee of Astana Qazaqstan Team Ivan Smirnov clinched a podium at the third stage of Tour of Romania. The longest stage of the race started in Sibiu and after 198 kilometres finished in Cristian, Romania.

“Today we needed to control and protect our top three spots in the general classification. The race went well for us right from the beginning, from 20th kilometer a small breakaway was established and we knew we could control it. We worked at the front and set the right pace. Alessandro (Romele), Lev (Gonov), and I handled this excellently. I was impressed by the team’s strength at the finish of this longest stage of the race. Unfortunately, a minor technical issue in the final allowed us to secure only the second place, but we still have two good ahead where we can realize our team’s potential. I am glad with our result, but after today my determination to keep working has only grown stronger”, – said Ivan Smirnov.

After the third stage Rudolf Remkhi remains the leader in the overall classification of Tour of Romania.

Photo credit: Traian Olinici Sports Photographer