Niccolò Bonifazio demonstrated his speed against the fastest riders of the bunch an Tour Down Under but he could not battle for the victory in the first stage (Tanunda-Campbelltown, 132.6 km) because the four members of the main breakaway of the day survived. Bobridge beat Westra, Durbridge and Belkov so when Bonifazio beat the best sprinters int he world, it was only good enough for fifth.

Lampre-Merida sports director Vicino said: "The four attackers escaped early but the bunch controlled the situation and the gap was about 2'. 
On the short hill of Checker Hill (104.1 km into the stage), the peloton could not reduce the gap and the rest of the course, mostly downhill, gave the attackers the opportunity to keep the advantage.

"I'm happy with the performance of Lampre-Merida, we supported Bonifazio perfectly and his sprint was very good. Of course, it's a pity he could not sprint for the victory. Mori has done a great job to bring Bonifazio into position for the sprint. We also appreciated the agility of Grmay on the hill."

Bittersweet feelings for Bonifazio: "I had good feedbacks from my legs during the race, I'm aware I can aim to obtain top results. Today we missed the chance and it makes me sad because my team mates had given me an amazing help."