Development Team: Bruno Kessler and Jesper Stiansen Deliver 1-2 Victory at Istrian Spring Tour
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Bruno Kessler sprints to victory on Stage 1 of the Istrian Spring Tour in Croatia, with teammate Jesper Stiansen crossing the line right behind him to seal a stunning 1-2 finish for Tudor Pro Cycling Development Team.
13.03.2026
Both just 20 years old, the German and the Norwegian arrived at the finishing straight in Funtana perfectly positioned, timed their sprint to perfection, and delivered a superb 1-2 finish.
The double win also earned crucial bonus seconds, and following yesterday’s prologue, Bruno and Jesper now occupy the top two spots on the GC. Bruno will lead the race into tomorrow’s stage in the yellow leader’s jersey.
The Istrian Spring Tour marks the Development Team’s season opener, featuring a prologue and three stages, with the race concluding on Sunday.
Bruno Kessler thrilled to secure his first win in the colors of Tudor Pro Cycling: “We couldn’t be happier with today’s stage. Jesper and I worked together really well over the final 2km - our timing was spot on and we managed to pull off the double win. Looking ahead to tomorrow, our focus will be on the GC with Jan Huber, and then I’m hoping for another shot at the sprint on Sunday.”
Sports Director Stefan Sölkner on a plan and its perfect execution: “What a perfect day for us! It was a fast, hard stage with several attacks and groups up the road. We were fortunate that everything came back together before the finale. The goal was to be well-positioned before the 2km mark - but not too far up front - so we could hit the finishing straight with momentum from behind. Jesper launched the sprint early, with 500m to go, Bruno was right on his wheel, and he pulled it off brilliantly. We had a plan this morning, and the boys executed it to perfection.”
