Ilnur Zakarin

Giro d'Italia 2017, zakharin (35153572065)

2018 Tour de France -20 Pinodieta (43721110731)

UEC Champion Jersey

Jersey green

Jersey green

Ilnur Azatovich Zakarin (Russian: Ильнур Азатович Закарин; born 15 September 1989) is a professional road racing cyclist from Russia, known for his climbing ability and time-trialling skills. Zakarin has made a significant impact in the world of professional cycling, particularly in Grand Tour races.

Early Life and Career

Ilnur Zakarin was born in Naberezhnye Chelny, in the Tatarstan region of Russia. He began his cycling career at a young age, showing promise in both national and international competitions. Zakarin's professional career started in 2009 with the Continental team Itera-Katusha, which is a development team for young Russian cyclists aiming to progress into the global cycling arena.

Professional Career

Zakarin's breakthrough came in 2015 when he won the Tour de Romandie, a prestigious stage race in Switzerland. This victory was a significant milestone, showcasing his potential as a Grand Tour contender. Following this success, Zakarin has participated in multiple Grand Tours, including the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a España, achieving notable results.

In the Giro d'Italia, Zakarin has been particularly successful, securing a stage win and finishing in the top ten overall in several editions of the race. His ability to perform in the high mountains and time trials makes him a versatile rider in three-week-long races.

Throughout his career, Zakarin has ridden for several professional teams, most notably for Team Katusha-Alpecin, where he achieved many of his career highlights. As of the latest seasons, he has been part of the CCC Team, continuing to compete at the highest level of professional cycling.

Personal Life

Zakarin is of Tatar descent and is a practicing Muslim. His personal life, including his faith, has been a topic of interest in the cycling community, highlighting the diversity within the sport.

Controversy

In 2009, Zakarin faced a two-year suspension from professional cycling after testing positive for a banned substance. This setback marked a significant challenge in his early career, but upon returning to the sport, Zakarin has been committed to competing clean and has passed all subsequent doping tests.

Achievements

Zakarin's career is highlighted by several key victories and podium finishes in stage races and individual stages in Grand Tours. Some of his most notable achievements include: - 1st, Tour de Romandie (2015) - Stage wins in the Giro d'Italia - Top ten overall finishes in the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España

Style of Riding

Zakarin is known for his aggressive style of riding, particularly in the mountains. His ability to sustain high power outputs over long climbs, combined with his time-trialling skills, makes him a formidable opponent in stage races.

Future Prospects

As Zakarin continues his career, he remains a rider to watch in Grand Tours and stage races. His determination and resilience, coupled with his climbing and time-trialling abilities, suggest that he may yet achieve further success in the coming years.