In his second season with Movistar, Ion Izaguirre got his chance to lead the team the Giro d'Italia but he only finished 27th while searching for the top-five). Nonethtless, he won his first WorldTour event: the Tour of Poland . "After finishing second in 2013 and 2014, it was a major step forward. For me it was a confirmation that the upcoming campaigns must focus on this type of one-week races," he tells AS.
The Basque who will turn 27 this year, explains: "They are races that suit me because I do well in the time trial and I defend myself in the mountains. Therefore I have to grow and take more responsibility within the team at those races." Unsurprisingly, he wants to conquer the Tour of the Basque Country: "This is my home race. After the third place in 2015, I would love to climb to the top of the podium."
Regarding grand tours, he will "probably" do the Vuelta. "I will be there to help the leaders. Although the grand tours provide much more visibility among fans, I won't shy away from helping my teammates. The calendar has opportunities for everybody. Hopefully, I can build confidence in me among my teammates."
The 2014 Spanish champion also wants to do the Ardennes classics. "However, I prefer to focus on my races which are one-week stage races. He can look back on another two victories: at the Vuelta a Asturias and a stage win at the 2012 Giro.
The younger of the Izagirre brothers sees a bright future for Spanish cycling. "There is always pressure for young people to evolve and achieve results. I see riders with a nice future both at Movistar and at home. The years pass and there will be a day when Valverde, Contador and Purito retire. They have been the best in the world. Those of us who are below them, have different characteristics. With our strengths, we will try to take over."
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