The closing stage of the French short tour Critérium International hit its peak with a mountaintop finish on the Col de l’Ospedale. The climbers of BORA – ARGON 18 were able to leverage the strength of the team, thus securing great stage results as well as remarkable standings in the overall classification. José Mendes finished the day in 9th place which brought him to the 5th place in the overall standing. Youngsters Patrick Konrad and Emanuel Buchmann rounded off the successful day for BORA – ARGON 18 by climbing to 13th and 18th place respectively. This was important to secure a 3rd place in the final classifications of the best young rider as well as the one of the best team.

”After we were left with rather mixed feelings after the first day, yesterday evening we discussed intensively our tactics for the mountain stage. Consequently, the guys rode courageously and with passion today. They were keen to achieve our goal of bringing home a top-result. The fifth place of José is exactly such a top result in a race that means so much for us. That was great and exemplary teamwork and everybody performed on his highest level. Congratulations to the entire team “, concludes BORA – ARGON 18 Sport Director Christian Pömer the stage race.