Jesper Stiansen Claims Victory at the 2026 Utsunomiya Japan Cup Criterium

The 21-year-old Norwegian rider won the fast-paced race in central Utsunomiya, taking the honours in a bunch sprint.

Covering 33.75 kilometres over 15 laps of a 2.25-kilometres circuit along O-dori Avenue in just 40 minutes and 7 seconds, the criterium provided a spectacular showcase of speed and sprinting power. Despite several attacks throughout the race, the breakaways were ultimately brought back, setting the stage for a decisive bunch sprint.

With the team working together throughout the race to stay near the front and respond to every move, Stiansen delivered the perfect finish to a strong collective performance, seizing his opportunity in the closing metres to take the win.

The victory comes at an exciting time for Stiansen, who will step up to TUDOR Pro Cycling’s professional squad in 2027 after signing a three-year contract through to the end of the 2029 season. Having progressed through the Team’s development programme, the 21-year-old Norwegian now takes the next step in his career, with his Japan Cup Criterium victory offering another glimpse of his potential.

Jesper Stiansen: “It was a really short and fast race. The team did a great job staying near the front and making sure we never missed a move. The plan wasn’t for me to sprint, but with 400 metres to go, I saw an opportunity to go for the win. I’m really happy to win this criterium, and it gives me great motivation for tomorrow’s race!”

Photos credit: @sprintcycling