{"id":260007,"date":"2026-08-28T13:58:38","date_gmt":"2026-08-28T13:58:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/28\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-7-live-wout-van-aert-in-five-man-lead-group-fending-off-a-large-chasing-group-of-stage-hunters\/"},"modified":"2026-08-28T13:58:38","modified_gmt":"2026-08-28T13:58:38","slug":"vuelta-a-espana-stage-7-live-wout-van-aert-in-five-man-lead-group-fending-off-a-large-chasing-group-of-stage-hunters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/28\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-7-live-wout-van-aert-in-five-man-lead-group-fending-off-a-large-chasing-group-of-stage-hunters\/","title":{"rendered":"Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage 7 LIVE: Wout van Aert in five-man lead group fending off a large chasing group of stage-hunters"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:58:38+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:58:38.332Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-92b777ba-a2e8-11f1-b939-b1192d331d3e\"><em><strong>For unbeatable coverage across road, gravel and tech, subscribe to Cyclingnews. You&#8217;ll get comprehensive race coverage of La Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a, subscriber-exclusive analysis from our expert columnists, in-depth features and industry-leading tech insight. Plus, the Cyclingnews app lets you follow the action wherever you go!<\/strong><\/em><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/subscription-paid\/?utm_source=Referral+link&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=LV26\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/subscription-paid\/?utm_source=Referral+link&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=LV26\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/subscription-paid\/?utm_source=Referral+link&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=LV26\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em><strong> Join today<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:53:15+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:53:15.990Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d2a1147c-a2e7-11f1-8890-913d5245cf0e\">The chasers haven\u2019t been working well together, and they keep attacking each other. Five of them did manage to get a small gap for a while, but have been brought back again, once again taking the impetus out of the chase. They\u2019re 1:45 behind the five leaders now, and are watching any hope of winning the stage disappear up the road.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:47:59+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:47:59.035Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-158ccb7e-a2e7-11f1-a1f6-d199d47bb348\">As usual, UAE are controlling the peloton, but aren&#8217;t showing as much intent to chase down the break as they have in previous stages. The gap&#8217;s now grown to over four minutes &#8211; we might be poised for our first breakaway win of this year&#8217;s Vuelta.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-158ccbec-a2e7-11f1-bd1e-45a6b8c8303f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KuGqhrZnRvyGeBFPh22Z55-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KuGqhrZnRvyGeBFPh22Z55-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KuGqhrZnRvyGeBFPh22Z55-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KuGqhrZnRvyGeBFPh22Z55-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KuGqhrZnRvyGeBFPh22Z55-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KuGqhrZnRvyGeBFPh22Z55-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:38:59+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:38:59.963Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d478ac08-a2e5-11f1-9f50-ad78132d7718\">The race is in more of a holding patter now, a plateau and now descent seeing the gaps remain much the same. The five leaders have 1:35 over the chase group, and 3:50 over the peloton.<\/p>\n<p>There&#8217;s some distance &#8217;till the third climb of the day, but upon reaching the foot of it there&#8217;s barely a kilometre from there to the finish that isn&#8217;t uphill.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:32:58+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:32:58.364Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fcfd8f1e-a2e4-11f1-a950-e916b119c948\">Poga\u010dar\u2019s team were quick to claim that his being caught yesterday was down to an uncharacteristic lack of legs, but instead due to a race communication fault which meant they did not receive accurate time gaps &#8211; implying that, had they known Mas was closer than reported, Pog would have upped the pace to stay clear of him.<\/p>\n<p>Regardless, the way the race unfolded will still give rivals hope that he can be competed against.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<p id=\"elk-fcfd8f1e-a2e4-11f1-a950-e916b119c948-2\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/we-didnt-know-that-enric-was-so-close-inaccurate-time-gaps-explain-how-tadej-pogacar-was-caught-during-vuelta-a-espana-attack\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/we-didnt-know-that-enric-was-so-close-inaccurate-time-gaps-explain-how-tadej-pogacar-was-caught-during-vuelta-a-espana-attack\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/we-didnt-know-that-enric-was-so-close-inaccurate-time-gaps-explain-how-tadej-pogacar-was-caught-during-vuelta-a-espana-attack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;We didn&#8217;t know that Enric was so close&#8217; &#8211; Inaccurate time gaps explain how Tadej Poga\u010dar was caught during Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a attack<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:26:45+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:26:45.641Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1e9d00a6-a2e4-11f1-97bb-095ec55c9652\">It\u2019s looking like we could well have a battle for the stage win among the breakaway group today, the way the day is panning out.<\/p>\n<p>But will we have a battle for the GC, too? The terrain is potentially difficult enough, with a category one uphill finish, and yesterday suggested Tadej Poga\u010dar isn\u2019t quite at the alien level we\u2019re used to seeing him at. That\u2019s raised the eyebrows of his rivals &#8211; could they try to test him today with attacks?<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/we-dont-know-if-he-was-racing-at-100-percent-today-rival-sports-director-believes-vuelta-a-espana-leader-pogacars-failure-to-finish-solo-on-stage-6-delivers-mixed-messages\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/we-dont-know-if-he-was-racing-at-100-percent-today-rival-sports-director-believes-vuelta-a-espana-leader-pogacars-failure-to-finish-solo-on-stage-6-delivers-mixed-messages\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/we-dont-know-if-he-was-racing-at-100-percent-today-rival-sports-director-believes-vuelta-a-espana-leader-pogacars-failure-to-finish-solo-on-stage-6-delivers-mixed-messages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;We don&#8217;t know if he was racing at 100%&#8217; \u2013 Rival sports director believes Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a leader Poga\u010dar&#8217;s failure to finish solo on stage 6 delivers mixed messages<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-1e9d010a-a2e4-11f1-9ab2-0ba15a22c834\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:683px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:149.93%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-683-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-683-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-683-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6.jpg\" alt=\"VALL D&amp;amp;amp;apos;ALBA, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Tadej Pogacar of Slovenia and UAE Team Emirates XRG - Red Leader Jersey prior to the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba, Spain. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-683-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-683-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-683-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cMKT28p4CWqFbmU5NEwfo6.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:19:42+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:19:42.519Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-alto-de-zucaina\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-alto-de-zucaina\"><span>KOM &#8211; ALTO DE ZUCAINA <\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-226bf5b2-a2e3-11f1-9217-afdda764b374\">This one wasn&#8217;t a long climb, lasting just 5.5km at at a reasonable gradient of 4.8% &#8211; harder tests are to come later.<\/p>\n<p>The five-man lead group remain together, and are working well, not even sprinting against each other for the KOM points. The chasers are falling further behind, to 1:25, while the peloton is holding steady at about 3:30.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:10:46+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:10:46.738Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e305a180-a2e1-11f1-9a57-f9a554d68bb3\">The riders are descending, but won&#8217;t be for much longer. Once they reach the bottom they&#8217;ll start ascending the Alto de Zucaina, the second of the day&#8217;s five climbs.<\/p>\n<p>The five leaders have grown their lead on this descent on the chasers to 55 seconds, and to the peloton, almost three and a half minutes. It doesn&#8217;t appear UAE are chasing hard &#8211; not for now, at least.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-e305a1ee-a2e1-11f1-b205-c14fb478685c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi.jpg\" alt=\"ARAMON VALDELINARES, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: A general view of the peloton competing during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Aramon Valdelinares, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/De4jjAAKMJnfs5oQjRjzYi.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T13:01:37+00:00\">2026-08-28T13:01:37.127Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-puerto-el-remolcador\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-puerto-el-remolcador\"><span>KOM &#8211; PUERTO EL REMOLCADOR <\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-9dbde05c-a2e0-11f1-b610-eb86263c79b5\">Dunbar, Johannessen and Lutsenko catch Van Aert and Leknessund before the top of the climb, and the quintet reach the top 35 seconds before the large chase group (which, among others, includes V Paret-Peintre, Bilbao, and, to nobody&#8217;s surprise, Mads Pedersen). Leknessund took five KOM points, Lutsenko 3 and Johannessen 1.<\/p>\n<p>The peloton is now over two minutes behind, and being led by UAE at a steady tempo. This big question now is whether they will allow the leaders a be enough gap to contest the stage, or reel it in to attempt yet another win for Poga\u010dar.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:55:24+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:55:24.793Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-100km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-100km-to-go\"><span>100KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-bd98078c-a2df-11f1-8331-d50636967d19\">A natural selection is beginning to form in the chase group. Three of the best climbers, Johannessen, Dunbar and Lutsenko, have gone clear of the rest, and are closing in on Van Aert and Leknessund. They&#8217;re 25 seconds behind them, ten seconds ahead of the rest of the chase group, and now over two minutes ahead of the peloton, which appears to have sat up.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:48:30+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:48:30.795Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c706cd40-a2de-11f1-971c-0bb0d53d15c2\">This is some of the chase group in between the leading duo and the peloton. They&#8217;re about 30 seconds behind the former, and 25 seconds ahead of the latter, with half of the climb still to ride up.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-c706cda4-a2de-11f1-a8e8-719184fef8e4\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW.jpg\" alt=\"ARAMON VALDELINARES, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: (L-R) Raul Garcia Pierna of Spain and Movistar Team and Leo Bisiaux of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM attack during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Aramon Valdelinares, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hhYSY7723KU3c4dexXruLW.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:43:10+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:43:10.955Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-081bfafe-a2de-11f1-9deb-67f891553620\"><em><strong>For unbeatable coverage across road, gravel and tech, subscribe to Cyclingnews. You&#8217;ll get comprehensive race coverage of La Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a, subscriber-exclusive analysis from our expert columnists, in-depth features and industry-leading tech insight. Plus, the Cyclingnews app lets you follow the action wherever you go!<\/strong><\/em><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/subscription-paid\/?utm_source=Referral+link&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=LV26\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/subscription-paid\/?utm_source=Referral+link&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=LV26\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/subscription-paid\/?utm_source=Referral+link&amp;utm_medium=Website&amp;utm_campaign=LV26\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em><strong> Join today<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:37:55+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:37:55.633Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4c1b73fc-a2dd-11f1-9b50-25f515648dab\">For the first time today, the riders are now climbing, up the category two Puerto El Remolcador (12.4km at 4.4%). And they&#8217;re not going to soft-peddle up it &#8211; the race remains very much on.<\/p>\n<p>Lutsenko, Zana and Bisiaux have been absorbed into the chase group, which contains about 20 riders, and they&#8217;re 50 seconds behind the peloton, and just under a minute over the peloton, where still the attacks keep coming. It seems like half the peloton wants to get into the break today.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-4c1b7474-a2dd-11f1-8928-cf68cf2a2b60\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE.jpg\" alt=\"ARAMON VALDELINARES, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: A general view of the peloton competing during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Aramon Valdelinares, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/jPLwXHPZhMmtsvTubjXUxE.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:31:15+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:31:15.621Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5dc48d9c-a2dc-11f1-b3bb-2f4b1a1c2847\">Lutsenko, Zana and Bisiaux (all pictured) are close to being caught by a large group of chasers, which appears to have at least a dozen riders in it, including Tobias Halland Johannessen, Eddie Dunbar, Marco Brenner and Pello Bilbao. The peloton appears more content with this group, too, and has eased up a little to fall 30 seconds behind them.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Van Aert and Leknessund are still going hard, and lead the chasers by about 30 seconds.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-5dc48e32-a2dc-11f1-86a3-81cadf466f86\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn.jpg\" alt=\"ARAMON VALDELINARES, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Filippo Zana of Italy and Team Soudal Quick-Step competes in the chase group during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Aramon Valdelinares, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XzmfGXFztAgGemkx4aupzn.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:22:47+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:22:47.857Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-120km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-120km-to-go\"><span>120KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-2f0ed332-a2db-11f1-8d05-d7c1f9cccae0\">The race remains still very close together. Van Aert and Leknessund are just 35 seconds ahead of Lutsenko, Zana, Bisiaux, who are themselves just ten seconds ahead of a chasing duo of Martin and Ra\u00fal Garc\u00eda Pierna, with the peloton just another ten seconds behind. This could all yet come back together, or they escapees could form one big group &#8211; it&#8217;s a very open situation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:16:20+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:16:20.742Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4848f4dc-a2da-11f1-9713-9d7e4356a204\">Three riders have successfully escaped from the peloton, and it&#8217;s a strong trio &#8211; Lutsenko, Zana and Bisiaux. They&#8217;re bearing down on the leaders, bringing the gap down to 45 seconds, while the peloton remains active only a handful of seconds behind, with more attacks being made. This has developed into a breathless start.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:09:49+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:09:49.421Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5f132bf2-a2d9-11f1-8d45-e120757d8ac0\">Vader can&#8217;t keep up with the pace, and has been dropped by Van Aert and Leknessund.<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;re having to go very hard to fend off the peloton, which is now only just over a minute behind them. The attacks keep coming out of it, and though nobody has gone clear, the pace is well up and spelling danger for the two leader&#8217;s chances.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T12:04:22+00:00\">2026-08-28T12:04:22.379Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9c316c7a-a2d8-11f1-bc78-63b2ac75dfdb\">The chase group has been caught, leaving just Van Aert, Leknessund and Vader out front. But the pace is back up in the peloton as more riders show intent to attack, and consequently the gap to the three leaders has been almost halved, back down to 1:20 This could yet be a long time before this settles down!<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-9c316d10-a2d8-11f1-8265-939ad88b6fef\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:71.39%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ.jpg\" alt=\"ARAMON VALDELINARES, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Wout Van Aert of Belgium and Team Visma | Lease a Bike - Green Points Jersey leads the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Aramon Valdelinares, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AHVQSncha5RNhRtC5bUHnJ.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T11:58:01+00:00\">2026-08-28T11:58:01.480Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b9282e50-a2d7-11f1-98c5-5f395ee6af89\">The three riders leading the race. As it stands, this might be the break of the day &#8211; the four chasers still have a non inconsiderable 1:20 to make up if they&#8217;re to join them, and the group doesn&#8217;t have big names that we know for sure have the power to bridge up to them. Whereas the front group has a certain Wout van Aert.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-b9282eb4-a2d7-11f1-bd69-63423f10b1f5\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:682px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:150.15%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-682-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-682-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-682-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS.jpg\" alt=\"VALL D&amp;amp;amp;apos;ALBA, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Wout Van Aert of Belgium and Team Visma | Lease a Bike - Green Points Jersey leads the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 7 a 149.48m stage from Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba to Aramon Valdelinares 1965m \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Vall d&amp;amp;amp;apos;Alba, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-682-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-682-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-682-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4dsYJw583vTpidiU6vkbJS.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T11:51:38+00:00\">2026-08-28T11:51:38.501Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d4d60e70-a2d6-11f1-8957-ed76cf4f88b1\">Milan Vadar is the third rider at the front with Van Aert and Leknessund, and they have a lead of over two minutes already over the peloton already.<\/p>\n<p>Things aren&#8217;t done yet, though. Behind that trio is a quartet of Ourselin, Cobo, Roosen and Wilksch chasing, and behind them more riders are jumping clear of the peloton. But even that first chase group has a minute to make up.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T11:45:42+00:00\">2026-08-28T11:45:42.949Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-official-start\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-official-start\"><span>OFFICIAL START<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-01470870-a2d6-11f1-b85a-f1641932d9da\">And they&#8217;re off! And the very first rider to attack from the flag is none other than Wout van Aert, who has got up the road with both Andreas Leknessund and one other rider, and has a gap.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T11:39:11+00:00\">2026-08-28T11:39:11.922Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-17fb8db2-a2d5-11f1-9186-15e6c368096c\">The riders have just started, moving behind the race car through the neutralised section. The parcours and circumstances today do feel encouraging for the breakaway, which could see a first win go the breakaway today &#8211; so there will therefore likely be a big fight today once the flag drops.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T11:31:57+00:00\">2026-08-28T11:31:57.001Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-14986d6c-a2d4-11f1-8592-41d2fa444b1e\">Yesterday\u2019s stage saw a predictable result, but in an unpredictable fashion. Tadej Poga\u010dar did his usual attack on the final climb, but rather than disappear into the distance never to be seen again, he was reeled back by Enric Mas. He might still have won, but had to outsprint the impressive Spaniard to do so, and displayed rare signs of weakness, even crashing on the descent.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-tadej-pogacar-survives-near-crash-on-descent-for-third-victory-of-the-race-on-stage-6\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-tadej-pogacar-survives-near-crash-on-descent-for-third-victory-of-the-race-on-stage-6\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-tadej-pogacar-survives-near-crash-on-descent-for-third-victory-of-the-race-on-stage-6\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a: Tadej Poga\u010dar survives near-crash on descent for third victory of the race on stage 6<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-14986dda-a2d4-11f1-996d-755f09aa042a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:70.41%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3.jpg\" alt=\"Team UAE&amp;#039;s Slovenian rider Tadej Pogacar celebrates as he crosses first the finish line of the sixth stage of the Vuelta a Espana 2026, a 177,4 km race between Alcossebre and Castellon de la Plana on August 27, 2026. (Photo by JOSE JORDAN \/ AFP)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yceUY7Dc83tB7bnGGRL2m3.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T11:23:41+00:00\">2026-08-28T11:23:41.513Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ed378934-a2d2-11f1-ae8e-f1319e8a94d0\">It might still be the first week of the Vuelta, but already a clear hierarchy has been formed at the top of the GC, with minutes separating them. That could become yet clearer today, for what is yet another stage in the mountains.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-7-preview\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-7-preview\/\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-7-preview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2026 stage 7 preview &#8211; A second summit finish that could either solidify or shake up the podium battle<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\"\/><\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\" class=\"ecom-root\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<p id=\"elk-0d7aa846-98cb-11f1-b518-3b7295288eaf\">Hello and welcome to stage seven of the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-7-live-tadej-pogacars-form-to-be-tested-in-the-mountains\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>2026-08-28T13:58:38.332Z For unbeatable coverage across road, gravel and tech, subscribe to Cyclingnews. You&#8217;ll get comprehensive race coverage of La Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a, subscriber-exclusive analysis from our expert columnists, in-depth features and industry-leading tech insight. Plus, the Cyclingnews app lets you follow the action wherever you go! Join today. 2026-08-28T13:53:15.990Z The chasers haven\u2019t been working well [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":260008,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"tdm_status":"","tdm_grid_status":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6804],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-260007","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-cycling"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/260007","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=260007"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/260007\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/260008"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=260007"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=260007"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=260007"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}