Rui Costa (EF Education-EasyPost) became a national road cycling champion on Sunday, in Santa Maria da Feira.

In a very competitive race, the EF Education cyclist was stronger than the competitors, and thus won the race for the third time in his career, after his victories in 2015 and 2020. To win the race, the 37-year-old cyclist had to beat runner Rui Oliveira (United Arab Emirates), who finished in second place. Rounding out the podium was Luis Gomez (Gi Group Holding-Simoldes-UDO).

“People think it's easy because we come from abroad and the cyclists from Portugal are weaker, but the racing here is really crazy. From the beginning, I did not want to lose space in front of my rival. I did not want to lose the race in the first kilometers. I was tired at the beginning, but it was positive, because in the end I was able to fight for the win. The legs responded in the last part, I knew that Rui Oliveira was strong and that he was in good shape, I gave it my best and I am happy to win the national title again, something I am very proud to carry across the border. , Guaranteed Rui Costa.

Facing a somewhat turbulent start to the season, due to a fall in the Vuelta au Algarve that kept him out of competition for a few months, the Portuguese rider explained that he never lost focus and was also aiming to achieve his next goal, which is to be present. In the Tour de France.

“The accident was very complicated for me. I went through a difficult period, but the focus was on recovering and I knew there were many races ahead. I hope to carry the national champion's jersey to the Tour de France and be present in the competition,” the Portuguese cyclist added.