Tour of Romania begins with historic stage in Moldova

The 58th edition of the Tour of Romania has commenced with a historic first stage held entirely in the Republic of Moldova. The race began in Chisinau and proceeded toward Ungheni, covering approximately 160 kilometers. Polish cyclist Radoslaw Frantczak of the Wibatech Lubelskie Perla Polski team won the opening stage.

The competition features over 130 riders from 16 different countries and 23 teams. While participants noted the good quality of roads outside the capital, some commented on the uneven surfaces within Chisinau. The event is part of a larger 800-kilometer route spanning five stages.

The second stage moves the race to Romania, connecting Iasi and Piatra Neamt over a 150-kilometer course. The third stage is scheduled to be the longest, a 200-kilometer mountain route from Piatra Neamt to Baile Balvanyos. The tour is set to conclude in Bucharest on September 13.