Bogdan Fink warns: Cycling is changing faster than we think

The 32nd edition of the Tour of Slovenia has kicked off this week, marking another significant chapter in the history of one of Europe's most respected cycling races. Starting on Wednesday with the first stage between Velenje and Rogaška Slatina, the race will continue until Sunday, June 21, traversing some of the most scenic and challenging routes in Slovenia. The event, which began in 1993 as a tribute to the newly formed Republic of Slovenia, has grown into a major international sporting and tourism attraction. This year, the race continues its tradition of showcasing the beauty of the country while also highlighting the competitive spirit of professional cyclists.

The opening stage saw New Zealand cyclist Laurence Pithie (Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe) claim victory after a thrilling sprint finish. His teammate Arne Marit took second place, while Italian rider Edoardo Zambanini finished third. Among the Slovenian riders, Tilen Finkšt came in seventh. He noted that the heat and demanding pace influenced team tactics significantly during the stage. Finkšt mentioned being slightly boxed in on the right side during the sprint, allowing his teammates from BORA to pass him on the left.

The second stage, held on Thursday between Radlje ob Dravi and Ormož, was marked by an unexpected twist when Serbian cyclist Dušan Rajović (Solution Tech Nippo Rali) emerged victorious. The stage was nearly 182 kilometers long and featured a large group of riders competing in the final sprint. Laurence Pithie, who led the overall standings, secured second place, while Greek cyclist Nikiforos Arvanitis took third. Slovenian rider Anže Ravbar finished in 12th position. The stage was also notable for several crashes near Jerusalem, causing delays in the finish. Despite these incidents, young Slovenian talent Jakob Omrzel managed to make an impression by finishing among the leading contenders.

Today marks the continuation of the race with the third stage running from Maribor to Celje. This route is considered highly challenging due to its traffic congestion and the need for temporary road closures. The police have issued warnings about numerous temporary traffic restrictions along the route, emphasizing that traffic will be halted primarily during the passage of the peloton. Some areas, particularly near the start and finish points of each stage, will experience longer-lasting road closures.

The fourth stage, scheduled for Saturday, promises to be one of the most demanding of the year. It will connect Kranj with Kranjska Gora, passing through Škofje Loka, Železniki, Radovljica, Bled, and Rateče before heading into Italy via Trbiž. The route will then return to Slovenia through the Predel pass and the ascent of Vršič, concluding in Kranjska Gora. This stage is expected to test the endurance of all participants due to its steep climbs and varied terrain.

The final stage on Sunday will take the riders from Litija to Novo mesto, crossing through Zagorje ob Savi, Ivančna Gorica, Trebnje, Šentrupert, and Mokronog-Trebelno. The race will conclude with a circuit around the main square in Novo mesto, passing through Trška Gora. This stage is anticipated to be both physically and mentally taxing, given the combination of heat, multiple categorized climbs, and the fatigue accumulated over previous days.

The Tour of Slovenia has become a symbol of Slovenian identity, with the green jersey representing the green landscape of the country. Over the years, the race has seen many champions, including Slovenian stars Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar, who have each won twice. Organizers note that the total distance covered in past editions exceeds 24,400 kilometers, and this year’s race is expected to surpass the 25,000-kilometer mark.

Organizational director Bogdan Fink highlighted the challenges faced by local teams against the dominant Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe squad, noting that the presence of top-tier teams makes it difficult for domestic riders to compete for victories. However, he emphasized the importance of developing new talents and expanding the sport beyond traditional strongholds like Ptuj. Fink also expressed gratitude towards the thousands of volunteers who contribute to making the event possible, acknowledging their crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the race.

As the Tour of Slovenia progresses, it continues to showcase not only the athletic prowess of the cyclists but also the natural beauty and cultural richness of Slovenia. With each stage presenting unique challenges and opportunities, the race remains a testament to the enduring appeal of cycling as both a sport and a celebration of national pride.