Van Aert Triumphs on a Blistering Vuelta Stage as Mas Defends Red Jersey

Belgian rider Wout van Aert claimed his fourth career stage win at the Vuelta a España, conquering the 192 km hilly route from Almuñécar to Loja in just over four and a half hours. He outsprinted fellow breakaway Valentin Paret-Peintre to the finish line, delivering the first win of this edition for van Aert after three stage victories in 2024. The win also marked the fourth stage success for his squad, Team Visma Lease a Bike.

The Guardian

Thermometers in Loja recorded 36 °C (97 °F), prompting organizers to add extra water stations along the route. Riders described the temperature as comparable to a “hair-dryer blowing in your face,” and many resorted to frequent water dousing to stay hydrated. Sepp Kuss, also of Visma Lease a Bike, noted that the extreme heat made any attack likely to “crack” riders and praised the additional water points as essential for completing the stage.

The Guardian

Enric Mas retained the red leader’s jersey, maintaining a 1 minute 45 seconds advantage over four-time winner Primož Roglic. Mas’s lead follows the withdrawal of Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar after a crash. With a decisive individual time trial scheduled for stage 18, Mas’s strategy centers on preserving his margin. The Vuelta will conclude on September 13, with the final stages set to test whether his lead can withstand Roglic’s pursuit.

The Guardian

Mas stated that the team’s goal for the following day is simply to keep the red shirt, underscoring a conservative approach ahead of the upcoming time trial. His comments reflect a focus on defending the overall lead rather than expanding it, given the challenging heat and terrain already encountered.

The Guardian