The winner of the Vuelta a España stepped onto the highest step of the podium for the twelfth time this season. The climb of San Luca, which had to be climbed five times along the way, was familiar territory for Roglic. Earlier this year, he won the Giro d’Italia opening time trial on the steep climb and as a result, he conquered the pink leader’s jersey. For Team Jumbo-Visma, Roglic’s victory is the 49th victory of the season.

“The team did a great job today”, Roglic said. “We controlled the race from the start. On the local laps, we often participated in the attack and we caught the last attackers. In the end it was up to me to finish it off. To be honest, I didn’t have very good legs today. We can all be very happy with today’s result. This victory would not have been possible without my teammates.”

They proved to be very valuable again, because Robert Gesink, Sepp Kuss, George Bennett and Antwan Tolhoek in particular showed themselves in the final.

“The last time I climbed San Luca, I won and today I win again. I think it’s a nice place here”, Roglic continued. “I will start in Tre Valli Varesine next Tuesday, and then finish my season in Il Lombardia.”

The 29-year-old Slovenian will most likely end his season as the world’s number one, because due to his victory, Roglic strengthened his leading position in the rankings.