Stage 9 was the penultimate and longest day of the 2025 Vuelta a Guatemala, spanning 200.3 km from Chimaltenango to the colonial town of Antigua Guatemala. The route combined high-altitude climbs, technical descents and a historic finish in front of throngs of local fans.
Route & Race Dynamics
Starting in Chimaltenango, riders faced a route marked by 2,676 m of vertical gain, making this the most demanding stage in terms of distance and elevation for the race.
Three intermediate sprint (metas volantes) points were set at km 64, km 88 and km 128, while the major mountain prize — a climb into Alotenango — came at km 188.3.
Early on the pace was high, limiting the breakaway’s time and keeping GC contenders alert. In the final 40 km, a select group formed that included stage-hunters and GC hopefuls, setting up an intense finale in Antigua Guatemala.
Stage Winner & Podium
The stage was won by Carlos Alberto Gutiérrez Ballesteros (Movistar Best PC), clocking a time of 4h 44’18”.
The following places:
- 2nd: Óscar Santiago Garzón (GW Erco Shimano)
- 3rd: Juan Carlos López (GW Erco Shimano)
With an average speed of approximately 42.27 km/h over the long and hilly route.
General Classification Impact
Following this strenuous stage:
- Óscar Santiago Garzón took over the overall lead in the general classification (GC).
- The time gaps grew meaningful as fatigue set in and strategic team work came to the fore.
- GC rivals will now need to be vigilant on the final stage, with today’s efforts having shifted the momentum.
Notable Performances & Statistics
- The climb into Alotenango at km 188.3 proved decisive. Riders who attacked here were able to put pressure on GC rivals.
- The three sprint primes gave opportunists chances to score early points before the GC battle heated up.
- Local interest remained strong: Guatemalan riders, notably Fredy Toc, continued to show effort and form, finishing among the best national riders of the day.
What to Watch Going Forward
- The final stage will now be influenced by the changes made today — teams will aim to protect or challenge the new GC leader.
- Fatigue from today’s long distance and climbing could make tomorrow’s race unpredictable; any small misstep could cost time.
- Secondary classifications (mountains, sprints, youth) may come under attack as riders try to salvage or improve their positions.
- With a GC lead becoming more fragile after such a demanding stage, the final day promises tactical racing rather than a straightforward procession.
Final Thoughts
Stage 9 of the 2025 Vuelta a Guatemala delivered one of the most intense and decisive days of the race. Carlos Alberto Gutiérrez claimed the stage victory, but perhaps even more significant was the shift in the overall standings as Óscar Santiago Garzón moved into the lead. With fatigue mounting and only one stage remaining, the battle for the title has significantly tightened. Cyclists, teams and fans alike now gear up for the finale—expect drama, strategy and perhaps the unexpected as the 64th edition nears its conclusion.
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