Kreuziger not dismayed by Paris-Nice performance

Roman Kreuziger (Astana) said he’s not dismayed by his disappointing Paris-Nice performance, where he finished a distant 17th and an even more discouraging 47th in the individual time trial at 2:50 behind eventual winner Tony Martin (HTC-Highroad).

Speaking at a press conference before Czech journalists, Kreuziger admitted he expected more in the eight-day French tour.

“I spoke with my trainer about it, with the people from Astana, but we don’t think we made mistakes. I gave everything during training before the race, but I hadn’t enough power. I wanted to be better there, at least at top 10, but I lost a little bit in the mountains and also the time trial was disappointment for me,” Kreuziger said. “But as I said before the season, the Giro is my main goal for this year and I am making everything to be on the podium there. My team believes me, I found there great people, there is a friendly atmosphere in Astana. So I am very happy about it.”

Kreuziger said he will spend a few days in his native Czech Republic before heading to Tenerife for a high-altitude camp through April 8. Then he might check out some Giro stages ahead of what he says is a run for the final podium in the Giro d’Italia.

“I want to be there in the best shape and fight there for the podium,” Kreuziger said. “There will be a lot of favorites: Contador, if he takes part, Menchov, Nibali, Scarponi, Rodriguez, but my goals are big.”

FILED UNDER: News / Road TAGS: Giro d'Italia / Paris-Nice / Roman Kreuziger