Tom Pidcock relegated at Volta ao Algarve for 'irregular sprint', Ineos Grenadiers rider also fined

Tom Pidcock finished fifth on Stage 1 of the Volta ao Algarve but was later relegated for an “irregular sprint”. The Ineos Grenadiers rider was a surprise participant of a bunch sprint after a 200.2km stage from Portimao to Lagos.

Ad Pidcock finished fifth on a stage that was won by Alexander Kristoff (Uno-X Pro Cycling Team), but was later relegated for an “irregular sprint” that entailed him «pushing another rider», the race jury said according to Cycling News. The 23-year-old was relegated to last place in the group he crossed the line with – so 135th – and was also fined CHF 200.

CyclingGilbert Exclusive: Pidcock 'will surprise us', but Giro 'tricky' for Thomas07/02/2023 AT 08:47 Stage 2 sees the peloton tackle a 186.3km ride from Sagres to Alto da Foia with Pidcock still in contention for the overall title, given his finish time was not been affected by his relegation. Pidcock is renowned for his versatility having won an Olympic title in mountain biking, become a cyclo-cross world champion, and won a Tour de France stage on the famous Alpe d’Huez — and 2023 promises to be another big year for the Briton.

After Algarve, he is slated to contest Omloop Het Nieuwsblad as well as Strade Bianche, Milan-San Remo, Dwars door Vlaanderen and the Tour of Flanders. Highlights: Kristoff powers to Stage 1 at Volta ao Algarve Highlights: Pogacar lays down marker on Stage 1 of Vuelta Andalucia Thomas to alter Giro d'Italia preparation after pulling out of Volta ao Algarve due to illness And in a recent exclusive with Eurosport, former world champion Philippe Gilbert said he expects Pidcock to have a long career in cycling which will “surprise” many people.

“He [Pidcock] is much more complete than me,” Gilbert told Eurosport. “I