The first week of the Vuelta a España had its climax with the 178-kilometre stage between Motril and Granada. In again hot conditions, the peloton rode three first-category climbs, including the double climb of the steep Alto de Hazallanas.  

Right after the start, Van Aert was part of the early breakaway consisting of 26 riders. The wearer of the green points jersey was joined at the front by some strong climbers, including later stage winner Yates. On the first categorised climb of the day, the 29-year-old Belgian had to let go. Yates started a long solo towards the finish not much later.  

“I tried to be in the breakaway in order to be of service to Sepp later in the stage”, Van Aert responded. “Unfortunately, I wasn't able to follow the pace for long. Yates' teammates in the breakaway rode strongly. Chapeau that they were able to finish it. I am now looking forward to tomorrow's rest day. Today's and yesterday's stages were very tough.”  

In the group of favourites, Kuss had to let go some of the other GC riders on the final climb. “As expected, this was a difficult day”, Kuss said afterwards. “I couldn't immediately assess how my feeling was today. The heat played its role from the start. On the final climb, I decided to choose my own pace. Looking back, I'm satisfied that I managed to limit the damage again.”  

“The form is there and I also feel good. Right now there are a lot of riders in excellent shape. I am now trying to focus on my own performance. There are still two long weeks to come in this Vuelta. We will see what those can offer”, the American concluded.