China Xizang Trans-Himalaya 2026, Konychev Wins Opening Stage

Alexander Konychev has claimed victory in the opening stage of the China Xizang Trans-Himalaya 2026. The rider of the China Anta-Mentech Cycling Team completed the inaugural stage of the Chinese stage race, known until last year as the Trans-Himalaya Cycling Race, in 2:47:20.The RaceThe Italian rider crossed the finish line ahead of Belarusian Raman Tsishkou (Li Ning Star), who arrived in the same time, and Russian Petr Rikunov (Wheeltop Rotor Chengdu Team), 38 seconds behind. The top-5 also featured Liam Walsh (CCACHE X Bodywrap) and Luca Colnaghi (Bardiani CSF 7 Saber), both 45 seconds behind the winner.Stage Result1. Alexander Konychev (China Anta-Mentech Cycling Team) — 2:47:202. Raman Tsishkou (Li Ning Star) s.t.3. Petr Rikunov (Wheeltop Rotor Chengdu Team) +0:384. Liam Walsh (CCACHE X Bodywrap) +0:455. Luca Colnaghi (Bardiani CSF 7 Saber) +0:45General ClassificationThanks to today's success, Konychev is the first race leader with 2:47:08, ahead of Tsishkou by 3 seconds and Rikunov by 45 seconds. The race continues tomorrow with a new stage.