5th April: Estella-Lizarra – Estella-Lizarra
A week of racing in Spain got underway on Saturday at GP Indurain, known for its tough and hilly terrain. Team Picnic PostNL set out with the plan of protecting Oscar Onley as their finisher, with the young Scot having finished on the podium at the same race in 2024. It was a relatively controlled day with the break of the day being slowly reeled in as the kilometres ticked down and the punchy finish approached. Some good teamwork saw Onley come over the penultimate climb in the reduced peloton, before a showdown on and over the last brutally steep ascent. On the narrow climb and descent, Onley fought to move forward but ultimately finished in 16th place on the day.
Onley said: “The guys were really focused on me today and supported me throughout the race. I wasn’t feeling good today unfortunately and also didn’t position myself well enough into the final climb, so started from too far back. It’s pretty disappointing but I’m hoping my legs get better throughout the week.”