For Ode Christian Ecking, this will be the sixth day of the Vuelta a.i. in the leader’s jersey on Tuesday. It is expected that he will have to deliver Covadonga on Wednesday at the stage as he arrives in Lagos. The Norwegian himself knows this, too.
“It’s usually very difficult for this stage to survive, with names like Roglic and others,” Ecking says. “The team and I will not be disappointed if you lose the shirt there.”
“The Vuelta has already been a huge success for us. Although I feel really good and will try everything hoping to surprise myself. We know it’s going to be difficult, but I hope I don’t waste too much time.”
Eiking also pays tribute to his Intermarché-Wanty Gobert teammates. “My team is one of my strengths here. We have a team that is not only very motivated, but also strong,” it seems.
“It helps to have a very good atmosphere. That good squad in our squad is important. By going from Continental to WorldTour, we have taken a step forward on different levels. You haven’t started very well this year, but every month it gets better and better.”
Eiking, whose contract expires after the season, is also looking forward to the rest of the season. “I hope to come out of the Vuelta in good shape and look good in the Lombardy Tour and the European Championship. I hope I can also go to the World Cup and this Vuelta can give a new impetus to my career.”
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