Alberto Contador's team has won the Classica Comunitat Valenciana in Spain, with Giovanni Lonardi outsprinting Amaury Capiot to take the top spot.
The European men's road season has roared back into life, with a packed schedule of small stage-races and one-dayers through France and Spain.
## What happened at the Classica Comunitat Valenciana?
The 1.2 event was headlined by TotalEnergies, Arkea Samsic, and home teams Caja-Rural, Burgos-BH, and Euskaltel Euskadi, as well as Alberto Contador's team.
Burgos-BH controlled much of the race, reeling in the break of three to set up the final sprint in Valencia.
A huge crash inside the final kilometer interrupted the final gallop, but Eolo-Kometa's Lonardi came through unscathed to win the reduced sprint.
## Why it matters for Alberto Contador
The win marks a strong start to the season for Alberto Contador's team, with the men's WorldTour's biggest names set to click into gear in just a few days.
The Challenge Mallorca series, starting Wednesday, will see 10 top-tier teams warm up for the full top-level racing, the classics, and more.
## What comes next for Alberto Contador's team?
The team will look to build on this momentum, with a busy schedule of races ahead, including the UAE Tour in late February.
Giovanni Lonardi's win has opened the books for Euro racing in 2022, and Alberto Contador's team will be one to watch in the coming weeks.
The Santos Festival of Cycling is also underway, with Emily Watts taking a surprise win in the Williamstown criterium, and Ruby Roseman-Gannon leading the overall standings.