Gran Premio Bruno Beghelli. Luis Leon Sanchez wins in honor of Michele Scarponi

Astana ProTeam rider Luis Leon Sanchez took a great solo victory at the prestigious one-day race Gran Premio Bruno Beghelli (196,3 km), which has been held in Italian town Monteveglio.

Sanchez attacked from a leading group inside last few kilometers, holding his small advantage until the finish line. Luis Leon dedicated his success to Michele Scarponi.

- Today, the whole team spend a great day! Sergei Chernetckii was in the break during three laps. Later, at the final lap Michael Valgren attacked on the climb, and after it I saw my chance in attack with 5 km to go. Yes, I am very happy with the win, a good result for me, but also for the team. I want to dedicate this victory to Michele Scarponi, I am happy to do it for him. In general, it was a nice day for our team, because Jakob Fuglsang and Alexey Lutsenko also won in Kazakhstan. We all are confident and happy! – said Luis Leon Sanchez.

Astana Team did a perfect race. Firstly, it was Sergei Chernetckii, who spend a lot of time in the break. When the breakaway was caught with 9 km to go, after a set of attacks a new group of leaders went away from the peloton together with Michael Valgren and Luis Leon Sanchez.

Valgren did an amazing job in the final part of the race, attacking for himself and making his best to provide Luis Leon an ideal moment for a winning attack.

The podium of the race was completed by two Italian riders, Sonny Colbrelli and Elia Viviani, who played second and third places after a massive sprint.

Photo credit: © Bettiniphoto