Team LottoNL-Jumbo-riders Primoz Roglic and Steven Kruijswijk placed top 10 in the fourth stage of the Vuelta a Valenciana today. On the final tough climb towards Mas de la Costa, Nairo Quintana made the show, Roglic placed fifth and Kruijswijk eighth. Quintana also took the overall lead.

“It was a tough day with a steep final! I just missed the attack from Quintana. We chased him but couldn't get close anymore,” said Primoz Roglic. “It was a proper test today and I am happy about my form so far. I’m looking forward to the next races.”

"It was a tough day with a lot of climbing metres," said Kruijswijk. "It was quick on the last climb. We started it, and Quintana was already gone. Primoz and I went for our own chances and the result is OK given our level at the moment. 

"The Vuelta in September was the last time I had to race like this. So I am pleased with how my level is right now. "

The breakaway of the day consisted primarily five riders but when they started the final climb there were only three left. At the foot of the final climb, Nairo Quintana attacked and soon created a big gap.

The leaders were caught with several chasing groups behind. A short distance from the Quintana group, Primoz Roglic and Steven Kruijswijk chased. Quintana increased his lead and won the stage. Roglic was at 57 seconds, Kruijswijk was 1'10" behind.

Early in the stage, Jurgen Van den Broeck could not continue the race. The Belgian of Team LottoNL-Jumbo already felt unwell when he woke. He still started but he had to quit after 15 kilometres.

Nico Verhoeven

Sports Director Nico Verhoeven said the race began after 100 kilometres. "Team Sky started the race on the Alto de Puertomingalvo, they were going full-gas on the descent.

"There was a large group with four riders of Team LottoNL-Jumbo. The goal was to get a result with Kruijswijk and Roglic. With a fifth and eighth place, we managed to get a result we were looking for. This time it was the maximum, it's a good base to build on."