To start the “Talk with Pro’s”, Astana pro rider Nikita Stalnov accepted our invitation for a short interview for The Cycling Tribune. Thank you in advance for Nikita’s kindness in answering our questions.
Nikita Stalnov – a 27-year-old Kazakh rider. In 2017 he made his debut both, on the professional level and in Astana Team. In June Nikita won the silver medal in the individual time trial of the Kazakhstan National Championships, while later he debuted at the Vuelta a España, providing a very good support to Miguel Angel López. In 2018 he became second in the road race of the Kazakhstan National Championships and took a second place in a stage of the Vuelta.
In the last two years you’ve been in Vuelta, are your objectives new participation this year? if so, what is the purpose?
This year, I am still in the reserve list, as the composition has not yet been approved. At the moment, I’m in training camp at the height of Lavigno and preparing for the second half of the season. My goal is to achieve victory in the Grand Tour and of course, help our leaders.
What competition did you already do that you liked the most? and what you have not done yet but would like to participate in your career?
I would like to drive Giro d’Italia.
What is the best moment of your career that you remember?
Hard to say, I have some wonderful and unforgettable moments every year.
Is your WT presence assured for next season?
My contract ends this year. I have no agent. And so I have not negotiated with the team.
How do you see the future of cycling in Kazakhstan?
Continental teams are developing in Kazakhstan. At the moment we have three teams: Vino-Astana Motors, Astana City and Apple Team. And of course, the main team of Astana Pro Team always shows the highest results! And also constantly engaged in the development of young athletes. In Kazakhstan, for the third time, a two-day race is held in Almaty Tour and I hope that the international race in Kazakhstan will be added to the calendar.
The Cycling Tribune 