Today’s 11th stage of the Vuelta was a dynamic 166 km loop starting and finishing at the Cortizo Padron Technology Campus in the charming town of Padron. Nestled in the province of A Coruña, Padron is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical significance. The route took riders through a challenging medium mountain course, featuring four significant passes: two Category 3 climbs and one Category 2 pass, which the peloton tackled twice. The stage showcased the undulating terrain that tested the riders’ endurance and strategic prowess throughout the race.
Dunban’s first Vuelta victory
In today’s stage, Eddie Dunbar (JAY) emerged victorious with a time of 03h 44′ 52″, securing a hard-fought win in the medium mountain terrain. Quentin Hermans (ADC) finished just two seconds behind Dunbar, crossing the line at 03h 44′ 54″, followed closely by Michael Poole (DFP) with the same time, but slightly behind in positioning.
Dunbar has steadily climbed the ranks in professional cycling since his early days with Sky/Ineos Grenadiers from 2018 to 2022. His move to Jayco Alula in 2023 marked a significant step in his career, with notable achievements such as a top 7 finish in the Giro d’Italia. In 2024, he further cemented his reputation by winning the Irish Time Trial Championship, showcasing his versatility and determination across various cycling disciplines.
Roglič grabs seconds
Today’s stage didn’t bring any major shake-ups in the overall rankings. The red jersey remains unchanged, with Ben O’Connor still leading the general classification. However, O’Connor did lose a few precious seconds to his closest rival, Primož Roglič, who continues to close the gap. Despite this minor shift, the various jerseys remain in the hands of their current holders, and the competition for the red jersey continues to intensify.
A short but intense event
Tomorrow’s stage may be short at just 137 km, but it’s a relentless uphill battle from start to finish. With such a demanding course, a climber is likely to emerge victorious. Riders like Carlos Rodríguez, Richard Carapaz, or Adam Yates, all known for their climbing prowess, could well take the spotlight and claim the top spot. The stage promises to be a decisive one for those with aspirations in the high mountains.
