The second stage of the international "Baku-Khankendi" cycling race will take place today, with competitors facing a demanding 193.2-kilometre route across Azerbaijan.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the stage will begin in Baku before passing through Shamakhi and concluding in Ismayilli, offering riders a mix of flat sections and more challenging terrain in the country’s central regions.
Belarusian cyclist Alexey Shnirko, representing the Chinese team Li-Ning Star, heads into the second day of the "Baku-Khankendi" race in the leader’s jersey after winning the opening stage on Sunday.
The race holds UCI 2.1 status under the Union Cycliste Internationale calendar and has attracted 24 teams from 20 countries, underlining Azerbaijan’s growing ambitions as a host of international sporting events.
Organisers confirmed that the five-stage "Baku-Khankendi" race carries a prize fund exceeding €50,000 and will conclude on 14 May in Khankendi. The final stage is expected to draw particular attention as Azerbaijan continues to use major sporting events to showcase infrastructure development and promote the country’s recently restored territories.
The "Baku-Khankendi" race is also being positioned as part of wider efforts to develop cycling in Azerbaijan and strengthen the nation’s presence on the international sporting calendar.
