The Italian flag waves over the first stage of the Tour of Rhodes thanks to Alexander Konychev. The Italian rider, who this year defends the colors of China Anta - Mentech Cycling Team, triumphed at the end of the 154.7 km Maritsa - Martisa stage, ahead of experienced South African Janse van Rensburg and Marco Manenti of Bardiani-CSF 7 Saber. Also in today's top ten were Matteo Scalco, Luca Colnaghi and Francesco Carollo.

Marco Manenti commented on the result at the end of the stage as follows: "It was a very competitive race from the start and the pace was high in the final. In any case, it's nice to be back on the podium after the Rhodes GP and to know I'm in good condition. The team worked very well and we'll try to be protagonists in the next stages too."

FINISHING ORDER

1. Konychev Alexander (China Anta - Mentech Cycling Team) in 03:39:29
2. Janse van Rensburg Reinardt (Tshenolo Pro Cycling Team)
3. Manenti Marco (Bardiani-CSF 7 Saber)
4. Pomorski Michal (ATT Investments)
5. Rogers Cameron (INEOS Grenadiers Racing Academy)
6. Koech Silas (Team Lotto-Kern Haus Outlet Montabau)
7. Scalco Matteo (XDS Astana Development Team)
8. Colnaghi Luca (Bardiani-CSF 7 Saber)
9. Morang Mil (Team Lotto-Kern Haus Outlet Montabaur)
10. Carollo Francesco (Swatt Club)