Stage 20 of the Vuelta a España unfolded today with a grueling 172-kilometer mountain race from Villarcayo to the summit of Picón Blanco. The challenging route featured seven daunting passes, including three Category 1 climbs, with the final and most brutal ascent doubling as the finish line. Starting in the quaint town of Villarcayo, nestled in the heart of Burgos, the peloton faced relentless terrain before reaching the spectacular, high-altitude finish at Picón Blanco. This stage was designed to test the limits of the climbers and set the stage for a dramatic finale as the riders battled through the severe climbs toward the ultimate victory.
Edward Dunbar secures Second Win and Solidifies Rising Star Status
Edward Dunbar (JAY) delivered a brilliant performance today, seizing victory on Stage 20 of the Vuelta a España with a time of 04h 38′ 37″. In a thrilling finale on the punishing slopes of Picón Blanco, Dunbar edged out Spain’s Enric Mas (MOV) by just seven seconds, with the ever-consistent Primož Roglič (RBH) crossing the line only 10 seconds behind in third. Dunbar’s second stage win of this year’s race cements his reputation as a truly versatile and dynamic rider. Not only has he dazzled with two stage victories, but he has also consistently placed within the top 20 across all classifications, making him a genuine all-rounder and a rising force in this Vuelta. His ability to excel in different terrains and hold his own among the top contenders has made him one of the revelations of this year’s race.
Minimal Changes in Standings: Roglič Solidifies Lead, Vine Reclaims Polka Dot Jersey
In the overall standings, there was minimal change following today’s stage, with the podium positions remaining the same. Primož Roglič maintains his lead with a solid advantage, while the gap between Enric Mas and Ben O’Connor has narrowed slightly to just nine seconds, keeping the battle for second place fiercely competitive. Additionally, in the best climber classification, Jay Vine has reclaimed the polka dot jersey with a narrow two-point lead over his UAE Team Emirates teammate, Marc Soler. This marks the second time the two teammates have exchanged the prestigious jersey, highlighting their ongoing rivalry in the mountains as they continue to vie for the climber’s title.
Final Stage Preview: Vuelta’s Time Trial to Crown Stage Winner
Tomorrow’s final stage of the Vuelta a España will feature a decisive time trial, providing a spectacular conclusion to the race. While Primož Roglič is set to secure the red jersey and the overall victory, the time trial itself promises to be a thrilling contest for the stage win. The favorites for this stage are Brandon McNulty, Vacek, and Stefan Küng, all of whom delivered impressive performances in the first time trial on Stage 1. As the riders race against the clock on this penultimate day, expect a gripping display of speed and precision as they battle for the most coveted stage victory of the Vuelta.
