“I’m very happy with the gap I managed to create today,” Vingegaard said afterwards. “I love racing big races and winning big races. To do it here for the first time is really special.”

The hardest stage of the Spanish stage race came alive early. On the first climb, Davide Piganzoli showed himself at the front by joining a five-man breakaway. The young Italian held on well in the group but played no major role in the finale.

On the descent leading into the final climb, a crash occurred with Jørgen Nordhagen and Menno Huising involved. Fortunately, both riders were able to continue and reach the finish. An already reduced peloton then began the day’s decisive ascent, where Sepp Kuss and Vingegaard showed their strength.

The American set a high tempo on the slopes of the Coll de Pal before Vingegaard launched his attack. The Dane demonstrated his strong form and dropped his rivals, riding solo to take his fourth win of the season.

However, Vingegaard later admitted it was far from an easy day. “It was a tough stage. I didn’t feel at my best early on. On the final climb I thankfully felt much stronger again. My teammates did excellent work throughout the day, and Sepp made the difference on the final climb. I’m proud of the team effort today.”