The penultimate stage of the Spanish race was expected to be a spectacular mountain stage, but the severe wind forced a necessary route change. Last night, the organisation had already decided to shorten the stage significantly. Earlier today, before the start, it was confirmed that the high mountains would be left out entirely. Team Visma | Lease a Bike started the stage without two-time stage winner Matthew Brennan. The 19-year-old Brit, who replaced Jonas Vingegaard in this race, will get a few days of rest from the team after a successful period. 

After lengthy discussions between the riders and the organisation, the peloton prepared for a neutralised start. Following a final route adjustment, only 25 race kilometres were held today. The chaotic stage was ultimately won by Quinn Simmons, who attacked from the peloton in the final kilometres. The Team Visma | Lease a Bike riders stayed out of trouble and crossed the finish line safely.

Sports director Frans Maassen reflected on the remarkable stage: “The decision on whether or not we would race took a long time. On top of that, the course kept changing. That uncertainty made it difficult for the riders to stay motivated and focused. In the end, it turned out that racing was indeed possible in safe conditions. Now, we shift our focus to tomorrow’s final stage in Barcelona.”