{"id":261728,"date":"2026-09-09T14:17:59","date_gmt":"2026-09-09T14:17:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/09\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-17-live-two-men-up-the-road-as-visma-lease-a-bike-try-to-deliver-matthew-brennan-a-fifth-win\/"},"modified":"2026-09-09T14:17:59","modified_gmt":"2026-09-09T14:17:59","slug":"vuelta-a-espana-stage-17-live-two-men-up-the-road-as-visma-lease-a-bike-try-to-deliver-matthew-brennan-a-fifth-win","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/09\/09\/vuelta-a-espana-stage-17-live-two-men-up-the-road-as-visma-lease-a-bike-try-to-deliver-matthew-brennan-a-fifth-win\/","title":{"rendered":"Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage 17 LIVE: Two men up the road as Visma-Lease a Bike try to deliver Matthew Brennan a fifth win"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T14:17:59+00:00\">2026-09-09T14:17:59.349Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42f04c1e-ac59-11f1-883c-f1c2fecd3876\">The pace is up in the peloton, with Steven Kruijswijk stringing it out in one long line. As a result, the gap has come well down to 2:20. It might only be the one rider doing all the work, but he&#8217;s outpacing the two leaders comfortably at the moment.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-42f04c8c-ac59-11f1-929b-45f72fbc4dff\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/S37aqNip5mmbS6k7CPXb5B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S37aqNip5mmbS6k7CPXb5B-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S37aqNip5mmbS6k7CPXb5B-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S37aqNip5mmbS6k7CPXb5B-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S37aqNip5mmbS6k7CPXb5B-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S37aqNip5mmbS6k7CPXb5B-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=\"2026-09-09T14:10:00+00:00\">2026-09-09T14:10:00.344Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2556e966-ac58-11f1-9073-cbc9da89a986\"><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=\"2026-09-09T14:03:16+00:00\">2026-09-09T14:03:16.732Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-34b3d00a-ac57-11f1-b1ee-d59ec61ffbf2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Cofidis has helped with the pace-setting earlier, but did not step in when Visma called everyone&#8217;s bluff and stopped pulling earlier. As good as Coquard has been in the sprints, he hasn&#8217;t looked like coming close to beating Brennan in the last couple of finishes, and he&#8217;s scratching his head as to how to get the better of him.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/its-not-like-we-can-block-him-off-with-one-kilometre-to-go-runner-up-bryan-coquard-recognises-matthew-brennan-poses-major-challenge-in-vuelta-a-espana-sprints\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/its-not-like-we-can-block-him-off-with-one-kilometre-to-go-runner-up-bryan-coquard-recognises-matthew-brennan-poses-major-challenge-in-vuelta-a-espana-sprints\/\" 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\/its-not-like-we-can-block-him-off-with-one-kilometre-to-go-runner-up-bryan-coquard-recognises-matthew-brennan-poses-major-challenge-in-vuelta-a-espana-sprints\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;It&#8217;s not like we can block him off with one kilometre to go&#8217; &#8211; Runner-up Bryan Coquard recognises Matthew Brennan poses major challenge in Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a sprints<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-34b3d0aa-ac57-11f1-8cc6-49201f556121\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Bryan Coquard of France and Team Cofidis competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA-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\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mfookvARdsFGmXjm2yi5dA.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\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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=\"2026-09-09T13:56:27+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:56:27.995Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-80km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-80km-to-go\"><span>80KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-4127482c-ac56-11f1-b142-3145efb55e62\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Visma are eating into the break&#8217;s lead again, pulling back some of the time they conceded by bringing them back to 4:20. They&#8217;ve made it harder for themselves, but still have the stage under control.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T13:49:40+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:49:40.400Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4e3855ca-ac55-11f1-a954-49304af8b630\">Normality has resumed, with Steven Kruijswijk going back to his usual role of pulling the peloton for Visma-Lease a Bike. The Dutchman has put in a serious shift throughout this Vuelta, the last Grand Tour of his whole career, and is epitomising what has made him such an invaluable domestique in this final phase of his career.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-4e385642-ac55-11f1-b044-f9ce26d2bc97\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Steven Kruijswijk of Netherlands and Team Visma | Lease a Bike leads the peloton during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE-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\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/t5Ef72hLw2rhm85TycbeoE.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=\"2026-09-09T13:43:25+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:43:25.122Z<\/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-6e6ee116-ac54-11f1-81ee-616e443b1204\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Visma are back riding at the front now, but not before the gap has grown to 5:20. That&#8217;s given some hope to the breakaway duo, who will be encouraged by the big margin they now have.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-6e6ee18e-ac54-11f1-ab30-17251617d9f2\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Sinuhe Fernandez of Spain and Team Burgos Burpellet BH and Enzo Paleni of France and Team Groupama - FDJ United compete in the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M-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\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UMP6QYGmJuA4zcGBP9mQ5M.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=\"2026-09-09T13:35:48+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:35:48.416Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5e767414-ac53-11f1-8ca6-6b1880c1d86f\">There&#8217;s a bit of a stand-off in the peloton. Visma and Cofidis have stopped chasing, and no other teams have stepped in to take their place. As a result, the break&#8217;s lead has ballooned up to almost five minutes. That&#8217;s an unusual move from Visma, given how they are the hot favourites for the stage win, and no other team wants to give them a free ride to the finish.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T13:29:39+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:29:39.804Z<\/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-82c50d7c-ac52-11f1-8991-4fcb26d2f26b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Visma and Cofidis are keeping the break very much under control. With 100km still to ride, they have them at 3:20. There&#8217;s been no real drama yet today &#8211; but there&#8217;s still a very long way to go until the finish in Sevilla.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-82c50e44-ac52-11f1-9765-d902ba063246\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: A general view of the peloton competing during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H-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\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Jgs4gxK6vbhgthcbJNQf3H.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=\"2026-09-09T13:19:16+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:19:16.180Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0f209716-ac51-11f1-a48e-772f6c046882\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Van Aert\u2019s form has raised eyebrows in the cycling world, especially ahead of the World Championships, with some saying that he looks as good as he did a few years ago during his peak. While collecting stage wins for himself and his team at the Vuelta is the immediate goal, he\u2019s also riding here with an eye on building form just in time to win what would be a career-first rainbow jersey.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/hes-close-to-2022-wout-van-aert-ominously-nears-peak-shape-ahead-of-world-championships-as-he-relishes-high-workload-at-vuelta-a-espana\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/hes-close-to-2022-wout-van-aert-ominously-nears-peak-shape-ahead-of-world-championships-as-he-relishes-high-workload-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\/hes-close-to-2022-wout-van-aert-ominously-nears-peak-shape-ahead-of-world-championships-as-he-relishes-high-workload-at-vuelta-a-espana\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;He&#8217;s close to 2022&#8217; \u2013 Wout van Aert ominously nears peak shape ahead of World Championships as he relishes high workload at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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=\"2026-09-09T13:12:11+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:12:11.922Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-11ee8c06-ac50-11f1-9e48-dff91a534420\">As well as taking two stage wins for himself, Wout van Aert has performed exceptionally as a lead-out man for Brennan this Vuelta, and is a big reason he is enjoying such success. Unless Visma-Lease a Bike have a surprise in store (as at stage 15 when they misled the opposition off their scent by feigning to ride for a bunch sprint before Van Aert attacked), he&#8217;ll likely be tasked with being Brennan&#8217;s last lead-out man once again.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-11ee8c6a-ac50-11f1-9473-3f876e25558d\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Wout Van Aert of Belgium and Team Visma | Lease a Bike - Green Points Jersey and Koen Bouwman of Netherlands and Team Jayco AlUla compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn-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\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MfuADEFwVHYGULLTsMsdn.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=\"2026-09-09T13:02:19+00:00\">2026-09-09T13:02:19.956Z<\/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-b1393894-ac4e-11f1-bc81-8151e50a9e7d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As Visma and Cofidis continue to set the pace in the peloton, the gap has come down a little, to three minutes. It&#8217;s hard to see this culminating in anything other than a bunch sprint.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-b1393952-ac4e-11f1-9cf8-83bf2a507ca5\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Sergio Samitier of Spain and Emanuel Buchmann of Germany and Team Cofidis compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY-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\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/57Qf9PdPdCsf384ym4rGiY.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=\"2026-09-09T12:56:01+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:56:01.931Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cfd8565a-ac4d-11f1-9d96-b3754674f520\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Yesterday, Matthew Brennan became the first rider to win four stages on Grand Tour debut since Fernando Gaviria in 2017. Today, he&#8217;s the hot favourite to make it five. The young Brit has been imperious in the sprints all race, and has confirmed his enormous talent. So good is his form, and such is the high he is riding, that he has set his sights on being selected for Visma-Lease a Bike&#8217;s Tour de France team for next year, with his eye on wearing the yellow jersey on home British road.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/this-is-a-big-stepping-stone-matthew-brennan-eyes-great-britain-start-of-2027-tour-de-france-after-racking-up-fourth-vuelta-a-espana-success\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/this-is-a-big-stepping-stone-matthew-brennan-eyes-great-britain-start-of-2027-tour-de-france-after-racking-up-fourth-vuelta-a-espana-success\/\" 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\/this-is-a-big-stepping-stone-matthew-brennan-eyes-great-britain-start-of-2027-tour-de-france-after-racking-up-fourth-vuelta-a-espana-success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Matthew Brennan has his sights set on the 2027 Tour de France, but will there be room in Jonas Vingegaard&#8217;s Visma-Lease a Bike team?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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=\"2026-09-09T12:48:59+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:48:59.402Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d4609e54-ac4c-11f1-be44-bde238fca705\"><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=\"2026-09-09T12:43:24+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:43:24.218Z<\/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-0c2d4fcc-ac4c-11f1-b33a-bd3376a28c4e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">3:25 is the gap between the breakaway duo of Paleni and Fern\u00e1ndez to the peloton, which is being led by Visma-Lease a Bike and Cofidis. They&#8217;re working for Brennan and Coquard, the men who have been first and second respectively in both of the last two bunch sprints.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T12:35:20+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:35:20.269Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ebb32aa6-ac4a-11f1-a7bd-818b6add4bb4\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Also safely in the peloton is Enric Mas, who is moving ever-closer to what would be a career-defining victory. The Spaniard is on the brink of ending what has been a career\u2019s worth of second-place finishes and finally taking the big prize of overall victory at the Vuelta. Today should be a simple defence of the red jersey; tomorrow\u2019s time trial, however, will be another matter.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/more-than-two-minutes-is-comfortable-movistar-head-toward-final-vuelta-a-espana-week-time-trial-with-confidence-in-enric-mas\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/more-than-two-minutes-is-comfortable-movistar-head-toward-final-vuelta-a-espana-week-time-trial-with-confidence-in-enric-mas\/\" 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\/more-than-two-minutes-is-comfortable-movistar-head-toward-final-vuelta-a-espana-week-time-trial-with-confidence-in-enric-mas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;More than two minutes is comfortable&#8217; \u2013 Movistar head toward final Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a week time trial with confidence in Enric Mas<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-ebb32b3c-ac4a-11f1-9265-d56d3b8126d7\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:819px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:125.03%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-819-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-819-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-819-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Enric Mas of Spain and Movistar Team - Red Leader Jersey and Jack Haig of Australia and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-819-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-819-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-819-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU-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\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/C29ceiyQaSJrCb5uGCwFcU.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\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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=\"2026-09-09T12:26:38+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:26:38.883Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b4e44cea-ac49-11f1-9758-6fd57acbd91b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The GC riders are having an uncomplicated day hidden in the peloton, including Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d, pictured here. His big day comes tomorrow, when he\u2019ll finally get to exercise his time trialling muscles in a bid to make a move on the red jersey, which he still hopes to win. Before the race started, he was not confident of winning what would be a record-breaking fifth Vuelta overall title &#8211; now, it looks like a very real possibility.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.procyclingstats.com\/race\/vuelta-a-espana\/2026\/stage-17\/live\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.procyclingstats.com\/race\/vuelta-a-espana\/2026\/stage-17\/live\" target=\"_blank\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-hl-processed=\"none\" data-article-category=\"pro-cycling\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;I never expected to be going this well&#8217; \u2013 Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d says &#8216;anything could happen&#8217; in Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a GC battle with Enric Mas and Felix Gall<\/a><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-b4e44d6c-ac49-11f1-ba24-f341bd38723c\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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:73.63%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Gianni Moscon of Italy and Primoz Roglic of Slovenia and Team Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ-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\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7g2YCJHSwVJNmQdFw9ESUZ.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\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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=\"2026-09-09T12:18:39+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:18:39.037Z<\/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-9b07cb68-ac48-11f1-95da-17ae7e3c0279\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The race has settled down again, the break being allowed a gap just shy of four minutes. It&#8217;s serene in the peloton, where they are taking it relatively easy in the heat.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-9b07cbe0-ac48-11f1-bab5-95514911893e\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: Oscar Onley of Great Britain and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team - White Best Young Rider Jersey competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM-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\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rYffB8AyEB83trq9ZicJqM.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=\"2026-09-09T12:09:25+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:09:25.132Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4cc141f6-ac47-11f1-b98a-250e37b76bc5\">It was actually nine riders rather than six who counter-attacked, and was a real ragtag bunch. Sprinter Bryan Coquard was a part of it, as was Mas\u2019 teammate Ra\u00fal Garc\u00eda Pierna and stage favourite Brennan\u2019s teammate Steven Kruijswijk, plus Embret Svestad-B\u00e5rdseng, Mathias Sunek\u00e6r Norsgaard, Milan Vader, Martin Tj\u00f8tta, Cl\u00e9ment Alleno and Sergio Samitier.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T12:05:02+00:00\">2026-09-09T12:05:02.033Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b045651e-ac46-11f1-9515-291e69d78924\">There&#8217;s been a surprising development in the peloton, as six riders have attacked out of it. They have a considerable 4:30 to make up if they&#8217;re to join the two leaders, so it&#8217;s difficult to fathom what their plan is exactly, but it&#8217;s sure livened things up &#8211; at least, until a few moments ago, when they were brought back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T11:58:40+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:58:40.437Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cc9e9f2e-ac45-11f1-b2ad-bde90ea6ef25\">There&#8217;s a relaxed atmosphere in the peloton, which has allowed the gap to the two leaders to grow to almost four minutes. The parcours is so flat and uncomplicated today that they are confidant in bringing a big gap back before the finish.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-cc9e9fc4-ac45-11f1-abf8-2f12e7bc1ebc\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: A general view of the peloton competing during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add-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\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8MhiJiPCYH7aWAcias5Add.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=\"2026-09-09T11:51:22+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:51:22.316Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-170km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-170km-to-go\"><span>170KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-c76669d4-ac44-11f1-bf0a-77b539638914\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dversnes is back in the peloton, while Fern\u00e1ndez and Paleni have a lead of over three minutes on a disinterested peloton. It&#8217;s unclear why Dversnes dropped back, but what is known is that Fern\u00e1ndez and Paleni love a breakaway, and will relish a day riding out the front that most would dread.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T11:44:56+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:44:56.647Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e1700976-ac43-11f1-b72a-93955903f0e4\">The scene at the start today in Dos Hermanas.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-e17009da-ac43-11f1-b270-332109ffe2a7\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh.jpg\" alt=\"DOS HERMANAS, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Santiago Buitrago of Colombia and Team Bahrain Victorious - Polka Dot Mountain Jersey and Enric Mas of Spain and Movistar Team - Red Leader Jersey prior to the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Dos Hermanas, Spain. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh-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\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/w8tyMpJu5Ujin6ambC8tEh.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=\"2026-09-09T11:39:13+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:39:13.326Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-14e53e26-ac43-11f1-9f72-0338739d4320\">These are the three riders who escaped up the road, but they&#8217;ve now become two, as Dversnes has dropped. While Paleni and Fern\u00e1ndez are over a minute up in the peloton, Dversnes is caught somewhere between in no-man&#8217;s land.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-14e53e94-ac43-11f1-a14a-1d89885f612a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Fredrik Dversnes of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility and Sinuhe Fernandez of Spain and Team Burgos Burpellet BH compete in the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Sevilla, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3-320-80.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\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KLV4Xff5kzsdAQZHHjTnv3.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=\"2026-09-09T11:32:07+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:32:07.324Z<\/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-16d96a82-ac42-11f1-bd61-67abab32208b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And they&#8217;re off! Paleni, Dversnes and Fern\u00e1ndez are the first riders to attack, and already have a gap approaching 30 seconds. Given the flat parcours, and seeming hopelessness of the break&#8217;s chance of survival, this might already be the break of the day.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T11:27:59+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:27:59.299Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-82ff38be-ac41-11f1-9d8f-673108d0f18c\">The riders have been in the neutralised zone for some time now, but the official start has been delayed as Jan Hirt makes his way back to the group following a mechanical. They will be racing shortly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-09-09T11:23:09+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:23:09.945Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d69433e0-ac40-11f1-9bb3-2db810461200\">It&#8217;s another scorcher of a day at the Vuelta, with temperatures once again exceeding 30 degrees, but riders were making light of the situation by playing with water pistols at the start.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-d6943476-ac40-11f1-91d7-75cfd86251b1\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\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\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f.jpg\" alt=\"DOS HERMANAS, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 09: (L-R) Rasmus Tiller of Norway and Fredrik Dversnes of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility prior to the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 202, Stage 17 a 185km stage from Dos Hermanas to Sevilla \/ #UCIWT \/ stage from on September 09, 2026 in Dos Hermanas, Spain. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f-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\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/y95QTKTyEHU8X8bzAcfV5f.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=\"2026-09-09T11:14:06+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:14:06.528Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-93edf2ac-ac3f-11f1-92ed-d16da3ef250b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Yesterday was another win for Matthew Brennan, as most of the bunch sprints at this Vuelta have been. The British parody profited off an exceptional lead out from Wout van Aert to hold off Bryan Coquard in Palos de la Frontera.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-matthew-brennan-makes-it-four-with-another-scorching-sprint-to-win-stage-16\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-matthew-brennan-makes-it-four-with-another-scorching-sprint-to-win-stage-16\/\" 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-matthew-brennan-makes-it-four-with-another-scorching-sprint-to-win-stage-16\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a: Matthew Brennan makes it four with another scorching sprint to win stage 16<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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=\"2026-09-09T11:06:32+00:00\">2026-09-09T11:06:32.389Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-84e59bb2-ac3e-11f1-a9c9-e1564c34295f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Following yesterday&#8217;s bunch sprint finish, today is set to be an even more nailed-on bunch sprint. It&#8217;s the flattest road stage of the entire race, with not a single climb to be taken on all day.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-17-preview\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-17-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-17-preview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2026 stage 17 preview \u2013 As flat as it gets but combination of Brennan and Van Aert provides a big obstacle for rivals<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/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-2934a35a-98d2-11f1-8785-11e422f7982b\">Hello and welcome to stage 17 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-17-live-matthew-brennan-seeking-fifth-stage-win-on-another-day-for-the-sprinters\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>2026-09-09T14:17:59.349Z The pace is up in the peloton, with Steven Kruijswijk stringing it out in one long line. As a result, the gap has come well down to 2:20. It might only be the one rider doing all the work, but he&#8217;s outpacing the two leaders comfortably at the moment. (Image credit: Getty Images) 2026-09-09T14:10:00.344Z [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":261729,"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-261728","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\/261728","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=261728"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/261728\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/261729"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=261728"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=261728"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sports.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=261728"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}