During the 2014 edition of the Strade Bianche from San Gimignano to Siena (200 km), Peter Sagan, the Slovakian champion of Cannondale Pro Cycling, placed second, 18" behind Polish rider Michael Kwiatkowski (Omega-Quickstep) and 17" ahead of third place finisher Alejandro Valverde (Movistar) of Spain.

 

This is the second year in a row in which Sagan has placed second at this race. Last year, Sagan and Moser had a great team play. This year Sagan attacked at 21 km, an attack that decided his outcome at the race. At the finale, Sagan also tried to surprise Kwiatkwoski, his break-mate, but the last short climb proved favourable for the Polish rider.

 

"I knew my performance was good, but I can't be really happy when I come in second," said Sagan. "I'm sure I did the right thing by attacking. At that moment, the race was in standby with many attacks and counterattacks. Contenders were waiting for my next move and studying my strategy so I wanted to stop the delay. The outcome was great, and Kwiatkowski was the strongest - congratulations to him."

 

"Road races offer a one-shot chance to come in first. I know I can grow and improve my form before the Classics. Tirreno-Adriatico will be a great and useful race to strengthen and better my form. Today's race made me confident, and I'm ready for the next."