ProTeam Lennert Van Eetvelt climbs to 2nd place at Bâlea Lac in second last stage of Sibiu

Van Eetvelt had marked today's ride. The stage finished once more at Bâlea Lac, after a 25-kilometer climb, where Van Eetvelt had won last year. With 10 kilometers to go, the early breakaway was caught, and Jonathan Caicedo (Team Petrolike), David de la Cruz (Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team), and Sergio Higuita (Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe) launched an attack. George Bennett (Israel - Premier Tech) followed shortly after. In the final moments, the group was joined by Lotto Dstny riders Lennert Van Eetvelt and Sylvain Moniquet.

Three kilometers from the top, Caicedo made a solo move to take the victory. Lennert Van Eetvelt followed 12 seconds later in second place. Sylvain Moniquet finished fourth. "It was a bit of a tactical game at the end," said Van Eetvelt. "When you finish second, you can always say there was more in it, but on the other hand, that’s not the most important thing right now. For the first time in four months, I really felt good on the bike again. I’m finally starting to find my legs from the beginning of this year."

"A month ago, I hoped to start here in Sibiu in my best form, but I ultimately had to come back from further than expected. I had also marked the first stage, but I really struggled in that one. Today too, but the feeling was so much better already. There are still many steps to take, but I find today's second place very reassuring."

Picture: Sibiu Cycling Tour