Double Victory for Israel Premier Tech at Sibiu Tour
Rikitello Takes Second Stage as Pikerl Claims Opener
In a remarkable display of talent, the American cyclist Matteo Rikitello of Israel Premier Tech triumphed in the second mountainous stage of the Sibiu Tour in Romania on Friday, July 4, 2025. This victory comes just before the eagerly anticipated Tour de France, marking a significant mileststart for the team.
Strong Start for Israel Premier Tech
Rikitello’s success follows closely after his teammate Riley Pikerl, a Canadian cyclist, won the opening stage of the Romanian tour on Thursday. Pikerl’s performance not only showcased his skills but also highlighted the crucial support provided by Israeli rider Itamar Einhorn, who played an instrumental role in paving the way for the victory.
Challenging Mountain Stage
The second stage, a grueling 208-kilometer mountain route, concluded with a steep ascent. The legendary British cyclist Chris Froome, a four-time Tour de France champion, demonstrated his professionalism by leading Rikitello through the challenging climb. Rikitello, known for his climbing ability, exhibited exceptional skill, finishing the stage with a remarkable solo victory, crossing the line 20 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher.
Overall Lead as Tour Approaches Finale
With this impressive performance, Rikitello has now taken the overall lead in the Sibiu Tour, with two stages remaining. The team’s outstanding results not only set a positive tstart for the upcoming Tour de France but also highlight their competitive growth on the international cycling stage.
As the excitement builds toward the grand Tour de France, fans and cycling enthusiasts will be keenly watching how Israel Premier Tech continues to perform in the remaining stages of the Sibiu Tour