{"id":260179,"date":"2026-08-29T15:24:50","date_gmt":"2026-08-29T15:24:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/29\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-8-live-enric-mas-is-the-new-virtual-leader-as-red-jersey-abandons\/"},"modified":"2026-08-29T15:24:50","modified_gmt":"2026-08-29T15:24:50","slug":"vuelta-a-espana-stage-8-live-enric-mas-is-the-new-virtual-leader-as-red-jersey-abandons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/08\/29\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-8-live-enric-mas-is-the-new-virtual-leader-as-red-jersey-abandons\/","title":{"rendered":"Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage 8 LIVE: Enric Mas is the new virtual leader as red jersey abandons"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T15:24:50+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:24:50.926Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-attack-azparren\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-attack-azparren\"><span>ATTACK &#8211; AZPARREN<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-c72d24a6-a3bd-11f1-bf6b-5ff706e69b03\">There&#8217;s been an attack from the peloton, as Azparren makes an opportunistic move in the aftermath of the climb. He&#8217;s leading by a few seconds, but the peloton has matters under control.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T15:20:11+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:20:11.319Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-puerto-de-barx\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-puerto-de-barx\"><span>KOM &#8211; PUERTO DE BARX<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-20808a76-a3bd-11f1-be0a-dd3bcdbda043\">The race goes on, and the peloton have just crested the day&#8217;s sole climb, Van Aert claiming the KOM points on offer at the top.<\/p>\n<p>No team really took it on, and no attacks came, so it seems like this stage will go down to a sprint, with most if not all of the major sprinters still in contention.<\/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=\"2026-08-29T15:17:22+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:17:22.428Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bbceb3b4-a3bc-11f1-b888-57877cfe0937\">The peloton looks a little in shock, riding only at a steady pace, with no team taking control despite nearing the start of the climb. UAE riders who waited for Poga\u010dar, some of whom also went down in the same incident, are pacing their way back to the peloton.<\/p>\n<p>This is the tenth Grand Tour of Poga\u010dar&#8217;s, and the first he has ever abandoned. Before today, he&#8217;d never even finished lower than third place.<\/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=\"2026-08-29T15:15:08+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:15:08.502Z<\/time><\/p>\n<div class=\"see-more see-more--clipped\" id=\"elk-2093718116178047247\">\n<figure>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet hawk-ignore\" data-lang=\"en\" cite=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093718116178047247\">\n<p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">\ud83d\udca5 Crash in the peloton and race leader Tadej Pogacar is on the ground! \ud83d\udea8 Ca\u00edda de Tadej Pogacar \ud83d\ude1e El l\u00edder de la carrera se ha ido al suelo y muestra gestos de mucho dolor #LaVuelta26 pic.twitter.com\/449HaJXgQK<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093718116178047247\" data-url=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093718116178047247\" target=\"_blank\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" rel=\"noopener\">August 29, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T15:12:47+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:12:47.205Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-dnf-tadej-pogacar\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-dnf-tadej-pogacar\"><span>DNF &#8211; TADEJ POGACAR<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-17d8f54e-a3bc-11f1-a582-41aafc01b950\">The red jersey has climbed into the medical vehicle, and has left the race. This is a shocking development in the race.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T15:11:42+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:11:42.452Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f1254772-a3bb-11f1-9e7c-91621928f776\">Poga\u010dar has gone down very heavily, and has shed a lot of blood. He briefly got back up on his feet, but has sat down again, clearly in a lot of pain. His abandonment appears imminent.<\/p>\n<p>The peloton has slowed down, but is already several minutes ahead.<\/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=\"2026-08-29T15:09:09+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:09:09.145Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-crash-pogacar\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-crash-pogacar\"><span>CRASH &#8211; POGACAR<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-95d46aec-a3bb-11f1-bf43-b587f7dfa5b2\">The red jersey is down, and he looks hurt. He&#8217;s still sat on the floor a minute or so after hitting the deck. His race might be in peril.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T15:08:18+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:08:18.046Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-intermediate-sprint\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-intermediate-sprint\"><span>INTERMEDIATE SPRINT<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-77945876-a3bb-11f1-8d96-5bf1c339d901\">Van Aert takes the maximum 20 points at the sprint. Sinuh\u00e9 Fern\u00e1ndez was caught beforehand, and the green jersey was able to take the sprint without anyone competing against him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T15:01:40+00:00\">2026-08-29T15:01:40.651Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-40km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-40km-to-go\"><span>40KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-8a635d54-a3ba-11f1-afdf-27649802d03d\">The riders are approaching the day&#8217;s intermediate sprint, and as a result the pace in the peloton has picked up. It&#8217;s Visma-Lease a Bike who have put more men at the front, in search of increasing Van Aert&#8217;s lead in the points classification, and are set to catch Fern\u00e1ndez before the sprint.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T14:52:05+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:52:05.506Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-33b45ab8-a3b9-11f1-8e48-4f69bae11fdb\">Following his fourth-place finish on stage five, Alessandro Romele is also a rider to look out for in the expected sprint today, though he\u2019s made headlines for the wrong reasons most recently. The Italian took responsibility for the crash that saw <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/luca-van-boven-quits-vuelta-a-espana-after-completing-stage-7-with-collapsed-lung-and-broken-ribs-from-crash-involving-alessandro-romele\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/luca-van-boven-quits-vuelta-a-espana-after-completing-stage-7-with-collapsed-lung-and-broken-ribs-from-crash-involving-alessandro-romele\/\" 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\/luca-van-boven-quits-vuelta-a-espana-after-completing-stage-7-with-collapsed-lung-and-broken-ribs-from-crash-involving-alessandro-romele\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Luca Van Boven abandon the race<\/a> prior to today\u2019s stage.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/it-was-fair-that-i-got-it-alessandro-romele-accepts-yellow-card-for-crash-incident-that-led-to-luca-van-boven-vuelta-a-espana-abandon\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/it-was-fair-that-i-got-it-alessandro-romele-accepts-yellow-card-for-crash-incident-that-led-to-luca-van-boven-vuelta-a-espana-abandon\/\" 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\/it-was-fair-that-i-got-it-alessandro-romele-accepts-yellow-card-for-crash-incident-that-led-to-luca-van-boven-vuelta-a-espana-abandon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u2018It was fair that I got it&#8217; &#8211; Alessandro Romele accepts yellow card for crash incident that led to Luca Van Boven Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a abandon<\/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<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T14:45:59+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:45:59.310Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-50km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-50km-to-go\"><span>50KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-5983fd58-a3b8-11f1-b4f9-c941215e3a96\">Sinuh\u00e9 Fern\u00e1ndez might not be out in front for much longer at this rate. His lead over the peloton has dropped to only just over a minute, although the chase may slow down if the peloton is reluctant to make the catch to early &#8211; the sprinters&#8217; teams wont want to leave themselves exposed to attacks on the upcoming Puerto de Barx.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T14:38:03+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:38:03.477Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3dc8f39e-a3b7-11f1-8bd6-d707812a934a\">Another rider to look out for today is Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe&#8217;s Jordi Meeus. He\u2019s one of the few riders in the peloton who can rival Brennan for pure speed, and managed to survive the climb on stage five that put paid to so many other sprinters\u2019 hopes. He was second that day, and will be eager to go one better having not won a race for almost three months.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T14:29:36+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:29:36.630Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0fc88df2-a3b6-11f1-bebf-25e94a39e94d\">Who will sprint for Netcompany Ineos today? Axel Laurance is looking in good form, with a 5th and 8th finish to his name already this week, but also have Ben Turner as an option, who has a bunch sprint stage win at the Vuelta on his palmares from last year. It&#8217;s a tricky choice for the team, and both riders are capable climbers who will fancy their chances of surviving the climb.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-0fc88e6a-a3b6-11f1-9030-d905bec8e172\">\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\/ZdbYcgjrsU7Z4f82mt5624-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZdbYcgjrsU7Z4f82mt5624-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZdbYcgjrsU7Z4f82mt5624-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZdbYcgjrsU7Z4f82mt5624-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZdbYcgjrsU7Z4f82mt5624-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZdbYcgjrsU7Z4f82mt5624-320-80.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=\"2026-08-29T14:19:22+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:19:22.829Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a2088dcc-a3b4-11f1-b779-ef965dbb1729\">While we assume Kruijswijk is working for his Visma teammate Matthew Brennan, the team also have another potential option for the day in Wout van Aert. The Belgian was in the break yesterday and came close to winning the stage, and as a result is wearing the green jersey, leading the points classification ahead of Tadej Poga\u010dar by two points<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s a slender lead, and one he\u2019ll surely want to defend &#8211; but that\u2019ll be hard if he\u2019s working to try and set Brennan up for a win.<\/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-a2088dcc-a3b4-11f1-b779-ef965dbb1729-2\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/i-didnt-have-confidence-in-myself-wout-van-aert-bags-green-jersey-but-regrets-missed-opportunity-in-vuelta-a-espana-breakaway\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/i-didnt-have-confidence-in-myself-wout-van-aert-bags-green-jersey-but-regrets-missed-opportunity-in-vuelta-a-espana-breakaway\/\" 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\/i-didnt-have-confidence-in-myself-wout-van-aert-bags-green-jersey-but-regrets-missed-opportunity-in-vuelta-a-espana-breakaway\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t have confidence in myself&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert bags green jersey but regrets missed opportunity in Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a breakaway<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T14:14:19+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:14:19.446Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-70km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-70km-to-go\"><span>70KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-ecfe59a2-a3b3-11f1-8f9d-4bea6822e746\">The gap continues to come down, with now just under two minutes separating Fern\u00e1ndez and the peloton, still being led by Kruijswijk. The Dutchman does have a posse of Alpecin riders right behind him, ready to try and set Groves up for the win<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T14:03:45+00:00\">2026-08-29T14:03:45.655Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7351ee80-a3b2-11f1-9d8b-1ff2abbf7515\">An interesting development at the front of the peloton, as Steven Kruijswijk pulls off briefly from the front to take a comfort break, and Alpecin-Deceuninck briefly take over from him. Kruijswijk is back on the front again now, but that\u2019s still a hint that Alpecin fancy their chances for the win today with Kaden Groves, despite the Australian\u2019s lack of form and failure to get into the mix on the previous sprint stages at this Vuelta.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-7351eeee-a3b2-11f1-9f34-3ddbfda635c3\">\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\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: (L-R) Ivan Romeo of Spain and Movistar Team and Kaden Groves of Australia and Team Alpecin - Premier Tech compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM-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\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C5Td2SKQB8hxcHJBdhV2YM.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=\"2026-08-29T13:57:38+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:57:38.460Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-98777dc0-a3b1-11f1-85cf-f56876b0cb91\"><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=\"2026-08-29T13:50:51+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:50:51.550Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-90km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-90km-to-go\"><span>90KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-a5e9ed0e-a3b0-11f1-be19-d9908b244da3\">Still it&#8217;s Steven Kruijswijk leading the peloton all by himself, and he&#8217;s brought the gap to Sinuh\u00e9 Fern\u00e1ndez down to 3:20. The terrain remains flat for a while longer yet, before things get interesting with the category three climb of Puerto de Barx.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-a5e9ed90-a3b0-11f1-803f-bb4f8c458e28\">\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\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: A general view of the peloton competing during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ-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\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kBAQvaJbHb6Yp5XD9ZYQUQ.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=\"2026-08-29T13:42:42+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:42:42.941Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-82a01630-a3af-11f1-a840-a7d621d9d25f\">Felix Gall, safely in the peloton. He was one of the big winner of yesterday&#8217;s stage, finishing the best of the rest behind&#8230;., and as a result moved up to fourth overall, just 11 seconds away from the podium. He&#8217;s unlikely to have a chance to gain that time today, but will tomorrow.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/a-good-day-to-try-something-felix-gall-upbeat-after-aggressive-final-ascent-at-vuelta-a-espana\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/a-good-day-to-try-something-felix-gall-upbeat-after-aggressive-final-ascent-at-vuelta-a-espana\/\" 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\/a-good-day-to-try-something-felix-gall-upbeat-after-aggressive-final-ascent-at-vuelta-a-espana\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;A good day to try something&#8217; &#8211; Felix Gall upbeat after aggressive final ascent at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-82a016a8-a3af-11f1-b548-03f3ac6d9ffa\">\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\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Felix Gall of Austria and Team Decathlon CMA CGM competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q-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\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z6XUJwMhdQXkNoSWnDVt8Q.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=\"2026-08-29T13:35:36+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:35:36.813Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-848255e0-a3ae-11f1-ab03-ef95ea8bd835\">Callum Thornley is on bidon duty for Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe. There&#8217;s no sign that his leader Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d is suffering at all following his crash, but we&#8217;ll only know for sure when he&#8217;s tested on tomorrow&#8217;s mountain stage.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-84825644-a3ae-11f1-9d12-ddda88ca5e21\">\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\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Callum Thornley of Great Britain and Team Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe carries bottles during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ-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\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFkoT8bkMTUQyqznhHiyKQ.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=\"2026-08-29T13:28:15+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:28:15.959Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7db4b524-a3ad-11f1-ab40-e74220641141\">There was some speculation yesterday that Poga\u010dar&#8217;s attack in the closing stages was motivated by anger, and the need to prove a point after being caught by Enric Mas the day before. But the Slovenian himself denied this, when talking to the media yesterday.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/i-wasnt-angry-at-all-vuelta-a-espana-leader-tadej-pogacar-denies-he-attacked-on-aramon-valdelinares-finish-because-he-was-upset\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/i-wasnt-angry-at-all-vuelta-a-espana-leader-tadej-pogacar-denies-he-attacked-on-aramon-valdelinares-finish-because-he-was-upset\/\" 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\/i-wasnt-angry-at-all-vuelta-a-espana-leader-tadej-pogacar-denies-he-attacked-on-aramon-valdelinares-finish-because-he-was-upset\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;I wasn&#8217;t angry at all&#8217; &#8211; Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a leader Tadej Poga\u010dar denies he attacked on Aram\u00f3n Valdelinares finish because he was upset<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-7db4b592-a3ad-11f1-8561-a108b20eee3e\">\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\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP.jpg\" alt=\"PUCOL, 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 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP-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\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fvpUUgAhTmrcT5LHhMCAiP.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=\"2026-08-29T13:16:29+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:16:29.632Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-110km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-110km-to-go\"><span>110KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-d8ea04d2-a3ab-11f1-8bee-e9efed5b0fb1\">Steven Kruijswijk has been tasked with setting the pace at the front of the peloton for Visma-Lease a Bike, doing all the work by himself. He&#8217;s keeping the lone leader Fern\u00e1ndez at five minutes, as Visma look to set Brennan up for another sprint win.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-d8ea054a-a3ab-11f1-b986-a1a672e43a90\">\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\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Guillaume Martin of France and Team Groupama - FDJ United competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf-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\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/u6CLnic7MBM86nSto5DJcf.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=\"2026-08-29T13:07:57+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:07:57.352Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-dnf-mattia-gaffuri\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-dnf-mattia-gaffuri\"><span>DNF &#8211; MATTIA GAFFURI <\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-a763f4dc-a3aa-11f1-a1bc-494d2b00cd19\">More bad news to report, as Mattia Gaffuri becomes the third rider of the day to abandon. He was one of the men to go down in the incident a few kilometres ago, and was clearly much worse off than Rogli\u010d.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T13:04:04+00:00\">2026-08-29T13:04:04.171Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1c6e99fe-a3aa-11f1-83bc-91b9b1f1eb49\">Rogli\u010d did indeed go down, as evidenced by a small rip in his jersey. He does appear to be riding comfortably, though, and is calmly making his way back towards the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T12:59:20+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:59:20.882Z<\/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-73956c2c-a3a9-11f1-9b12-09efd242ca35\">A few riders have been held up and are making their way through the convoy back into the peloton. One of those riders is Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d &#8211; he appears unhurt, and it&#8217;s unclear for now whether he went down.<\/p>\n<p>The pace has picked up a bit, but Fern\u00e1ndez&#8217;s lead remains over five minutes.<\/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=\"2026-08-29T12:54:40+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:54:40.821Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cc8cf2ce-a3a8-11f1-bf3e-5f0236477ff3\"><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=\"2026-08-29T12:47:43+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:47:43.827Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-130km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-130km-to-go\"><span>130KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-d45cb986-a3a7-11f1-9f75-35c6808253b8\">Visma are leading the peloton, but are a distant 5:30 behind Fern\u00e1ndez. It&#8217;s been a subdued start to the stage.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-d45cb9f4-a3a7-11f1-aa5e-cb746e52d662\">\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\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Steven Kruijswijk of Netherlands and Team Visma | Lease a Bike and Guillaume Martin of France and Team Groupama - FDJ United lead the peloton during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme-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\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cuamfmHshPZTFFxHmnwBme.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=\"2026-08-29T12:42:36+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:42:36.783Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-dnf-floris-van-tricht\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-dnf-floris-van-tricht\"><span>DNF &#8211; FLORIS VAN TRICHT<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-1cfcabc0-a3a7-11f1-bb90-dbe6ede7c42b\">Unfortunately, there has been a second abandon as a consequence of the crash at the start of the day. NSN&#8217;s Floris Van Tricht had been making his Grand Tour debut, but finishes in unlucky fashion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T12:35:13+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:35:13.229Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-140km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-140km-to-go\"><span>140KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-149e7a36-a3a6-11f1-8423-6550255e72b4\">Fern\u00e1ndez has been given a huge lead over the peloton, almost up to 6 minutes. The peloton is taking thins easy, though Visma have taken control of the pace-setting, presumably for their sprinter Matthew Brennan.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-149e7a9a-a3a6-11f1-a7f9-cb5cf638c09a\">\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\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4.jpg\" alt=\"XERACO, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Sinuhe Fernandez of Spain and Team Burgos Burpellet BH competes in the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4-320-80.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\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/heqFaD3GxSxGADZeNdntw4.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=\"2026-08-29T12:29:25+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:29:25.894Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-dnf-ivan-sosa\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-dnf-ivan-sosa\"><span>DNF &#8211; IVAN SOSA<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-45b4dc88-a3a5-11f1-aaa9-3ba87dcb8a36\">We have had a first abandon as a result of the pre-flag crash, and it&#8217;s Kern Pharma&#8217;s climber Diego Uriarte. That&#8217;s a shame as he has been lively at this Vuelta, getting into the break on multiple occasions already.<\/p>\n<p>Here was a glimpse of the chaotic aftermath following that incident earlier in the day.<\/p>\n<div class=\"see-more see-more--clipped\" id=\"elk-2093668007046234479\">\n<figure>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet hawk-ignore\" data-lang=\"en\" cite=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093668007046234479\">\n<p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">\ud83d\ude33 Big crash in the early moments of the stage. Luckily everyone was fine and able to continue after being checked out!\ud83d\ude2b \u00a1Fuerte ca\u00edda en el principio de la etapa! Por suerte, todos los implicados pueden continuar #LaVuelta26 pic.twitter.com\/A0nVLCrgFp<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093668007046234479\" data-url=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093668007046234479\" target=\"_blank\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" rel=\"noopener\">August 29, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\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=\"2026-08-29T12:22:08+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:22:08.067Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-40d249cc-a3a4-11f1-8211-7fb6188ce627\">This was the moment at the start of the day when Fern\u00e1ndez attacked, ahead of a disinterested peloton He must surely have imagined he&#8217;d have so company when he made the move.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-40d24a30-a3a4-11f1-8f1a-bde34fd4856c\">\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\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6.jpg\" alt=\"PUCOL, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: Sinuhe Fernandez of Spain and Team Burgos Burpellet BH attacks during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6-320-80.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\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HGPGcBKkJ6TRzHCrw4iNk6.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=\"2026-08-29T12:16:35+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:16:35.005Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-150km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-150km-to-go\"><span>150KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-7a17f1ce-a3a3-11f1-b4c7-095e355f9ff0\">The peloton has already eased up, and allowed Fern\u00e1ndez a lead of almost two and a half minutes already. The anticipated battle to get into the break has not materialised; and you wouldn\u2019t expect Fern\u00e1ndez to have any chance fending off an entire peloton by himself.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T12:10:55+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:10:55.262Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-af9b3906-a3a2-11f1-9b75-d3646373227d\">So far it&#8217;s Burgos Burpellet BH showing most intent. Their rider Sinuh\u00e9 Fern\u00e1ndez has a gap of one minute after attacking from the flag, while his teammate Jos\u00e9 Luis Faura attempted to join him, before dropping back into the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T12:03:04+00:00\">2026-08-29T12:03:04.170Z<\/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-96d60794-a3a1-11f1-ab92-03ac0a7961da\">And they&#8217;re off! Everyone has regrouped and regathered themselves after the crash, and the race has at last began.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T11:59:12+00:00\">2026-08-29T11:59:12.556Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0cd8278e-a3a1-11f1-87d0-0b0d2831c5fc\">The peloton are still behind the race car, as the start continues to be delayed as a result of the crash.<\/p>\n<p>When things finally do kick off, expect a fierce battle for the break, on a day where their hopes of survival feel realistic.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-0cd827fc-a3a1-11f1-a194-095303a51325\">\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\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd.jpg\" alt=\"PUCOL, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: A general view of the peloton prior to the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd-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\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/HAva7d7B5EJnoM2yecMgNd.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=\"2026-08-29T11:52:20+00:00\">2026-08-29T11:52:20.688Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-17386aa0-a3a0-11f1-a55d-db96decc295e\">There was a crash in the neutralised zone, which has delayed the official start of the stage. But hopefully we will be racing any moment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T11:46:48+00:00\">2026-08-29T11:46:48.585Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5160a496-a39f-11f1-a5bd-998dc33843e3\">The action is set to kick off any moment, but before it does, be sure to catch up with yesterday&#8217;s stage, the first at this year&#8217;s race to be won by the breakaway.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-andreas-leknessund-tobias-johannessen-solo-away-from-wout-van-aert-in-uno-x-mobility-1-2-on-stage-7\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-andreas-leknessund-tobias-johannessen-solo-away-from-wout-van-aert-in-uno-x-mobility-1-2-on-stage-7\/\" 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-andreas-leknessund-tobias-johannessen-solo-away-from-wout-van-aert-in-uno-x-mobility-1-2-on-stage-7\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a: Andreas Leknessund, Tobias Johannessen solo away from Wout van Aert in Uno-X Mobility 1-2 on stage 7<\/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<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T11:40:19+00:00\">2026-08-29T11:40:19.266Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-696d7c72-a39e-11f1-82eb-5757c4d13323\">The four jersey wearers at the start today &#8211; Onley, Poga\u010dar, Van Aert and Leknessund.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-696d7cea-a39e-11f1-88bf-6d87e4aaf94d\">\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\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C.jpg\" alt=\"PUCOL, SPAIN - AUGUST 29: (L-R) Oscar Onley of Great Britain and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team - White Best Young Rider Jersey, Tadej Pogacar of Slovenia and UAE Team Emirates XRG - Red Leader Jersey, Wout Van Aert of Belgium and Team Visma | Lease a Bike - Green Points Jersey and Andreas Leknessund of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility - Polka Dot Mountain Jersey take a selfie prior to the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 8 a 171km stage from Pucol to Xeraco \/ #UCIWT \/ on August 29, 2026 in Pucol, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C-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\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3DPpXWduF4iNBrSVENPu9C.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=\"2026-08-29T11:33:00+00:00\">2026-08-29T11:33:00.368Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-63ae6860-a39d-11f1-8234-4fa4ceb83a6f\">The riders are off from the unofficial start, short of one rider who finished yesterday. Luca Van Boven has abandoned the race after his nasty crash yesterday.<\/p>\n<div class=\"see-more see-more--clipped\" id=\"elk-2093447840588873964\">\n<figure>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet hawk-ignore\" data-lang=\"en\" cite=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093447840588873964\">\n<p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Luca Van Boven suffered two broken ribs and a collapsed lung because of the nasty crash during stage 7 of La Vuelta, which he courageously managed to finish. Luca will remain in hospital overnight for further observation and will unfortunately not start tomorrow. He will\u2026 pic.twitter.com\/clsMCFehBL<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093447840588873964\" data-url=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/cantworkitout\/status\/2093447840588873964\" target=\"_blank\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" rel=\"noopener\">August 28, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-08-29T11:29:27+00:00\">2026-08-29T11:29:27.899Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e4f9b6be-a39c-11f1-9a8b-5fa3166915be\">For the first time since stage five, the sprinters have a chance to go for a stage win today &#8211; but it won\u2019t be easy. There\u2019s a tough climb crested within the final 30km, which is hard enough to potentially see some sprinters dropped, to see attacks go clear from the peloton. It\u2019s a well-balanced parcours, that promises to be very exciting<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-8-preview\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-8-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-8-preview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2026 stage 8 preview &#8211; Can Matthew Brennan make it a hat trick of wins in Xeraco?<\/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-a36dd968-98cb-11f1-9275-03dc34340abf\">Hello and welcome to stage 8 of the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-8-live-can-the-sprinters-survive-a-late-climb\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>2026-08-29T15:24:50.926Z ATTACK &#8211; AZPARREN There&#8217;s been an attack from the peloton, as Azparren makes an opportunistic move in the aftermath of the climb. He&#8217;s leading by a few seconds, but the peloton has matters under control. 2026-08-29T15:20:11.319Z KOM &#8211; PUERTO DE BARX The race goes on, and the peloton have just crested the day&#8217;s sole [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":260180,"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-260179","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\/260179","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=260179"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/260179\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/260180"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=260179"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=260179"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=260179"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}