Scott Mediterranean Epic Explodes into Life with a Thrilling Stage 1 Time Trial

The Scott Mediterranean Epic roared into action today with an explosive opening stage that immediately set the tone for a week of world-class racing along Spain’s stunning eastern coastline. Stage 1, the iconic CRONO by Maxxis, delivered exactly what it promised: intensity, precision, and zero margin for error.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Torre del Rey in Oropesa del Mar, the 28 km individual time trial with 515 metres of elevation gain demanded absolute focus from the very first pedal stroke. Riders were sent off at 30-second intervals, each alone against the clock, the terrain, and their own limits. The course, unchanged from 2025, once again proved why it is regarded as one of the most balanced and decisive openers in stage racing.

The route unfolded in three distinct acts. The opening kilometres were fast and rolling, skimming the Mediterranean Sea and crossing the greenway, where power and pacing were critical. From there, the race shifted into its second phase: a long, grinding climb that transitioned from road to trail and finally to track, steadily dragging riders to the highest point of the day. Then came the finale – a long, technical and demanding downhill singletrack that tested nerve, bike handling, and concentration, sending heart rates and adrenaline soaring all the way to the finish.

In the men’s race, expectations were for razor-thin margins given the depth of the field – and while the gaps were indeed small among the chasers, one rider stood out. Spain’s David Valero, racing his first Mediterranean Epic with Klimatiza Orbea, delivered a statement performance. Smooth, powerful, and relentless, Valero controlled the course from start to finish, building a decisive advantage in the latter stages. He crossed the line as the Stage 1 winner, claiming the first leader’s jersey and laying down an early marker for the overall title.

Behind him, defending champion Wout Alleman of Belgium rode a strong and composed race to secure second place, finishing 58 seconds back. Canada’s Cole Punchard rounded out the podium in third, just 9 seconds behind Alleman but already over a minute adrift of Valero in the general classification. It was a clear reminder that in a race like the Mediterranean Epic, every second counts from day one.

The women’s race delivered one of the most compelling battles of the day. From the earliest intermediate splits, it was clear that Dutch rider Rosa van Doorn and Spain’s Natalia Fischer were locked in a fierce and evenly matched duel. The two traded virtual leads throughout the course, separated by mere seconds, with no room for mistakes on the technical descents.

After more than an hour of full-gas racing, it was van Doorn who emerged victorious, stopping the clock just 13 seconds ahead of Fischer – a margin that perfectly reflected the parity and tension of the contest. American Hannah Otto completed the podium in third, 42 seconds behind the winner, keeping herself firmly in contention as the race progresses.

Stage 1 of the Scott Mediterranean Epic has once again proven why the CRONO is such a defining opener. It stripped the race back to its purest elements: power, skill, and composure under pressure. Cards have been laid on the table, the first gaps have opened, and the narrative for the days ahead has been written.

With the Mediterranean sun shining and the world’s best mountain bikers already fully committed, the Scott Mediterranean Epic is officially underway – and it has started exactly as it means to go on.