{"id":891886,"date":"2026-09-11T15:10:49","date_gmt":"2026-09-11T15:10:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/891886\/"},"modified":"2026-09-11T15:10:49","modified_gmt":"2026-09-11T15:10:49","slug":"vuelta-a-espana-stage-19-live-enric-mas-racing-gc-contenders-up-summit-finish-of-penas-blancas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/891886\/","title":{"rendered":"Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage 19 LIVE: Enric Mas racing GC contenders up summit finish of Pe\u00f1as Blancas"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>2026-09-11T15:09:06.891Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-1km-to-go\"\/>1KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd7a92b0-adf2-11f1-93b2-d589e2688694\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dunbar is trying to chase Buitrago by himself, but still has ten seconds to make up as he goes under the flamme rouge.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In the peloton, EF&#8217;s Rodriguez has finished his long turn, but no attack has come yet from his teammate Carapaz.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T15:06:44.100Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-attack-buitrago\"\/>ATTACK &#8211; BUITRAGO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-67b7cb18-adf2-11f1-aa61-15cb76d84759\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Moments after that post, Buitrago attacked &#8211; and it&#8217;s a deadly one! He&#8217;s got a gap of ten seconds already, and looks very strong. Could this be the stage-winning move?<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T15:05:32.893Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-2km-to-go\"\/>2KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3d8640f4-adf2-11f1-99a8-c99dbe86769f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At the front, it&#8217;s still the same four riders together &#8211; Buitrago, Gloag, Berrade and Dunbar. None of them have attacked each other yet, but will have to soon as the summit nears.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T15:00:25.931Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8652d276-adf1-11f1-95f6-5518453255dc\">There are still about 20 riders in the peloton, but not among them is Skjelmose, who has just been dropped. He&#8217;s set to fall further down the GC, having dropped to eighth yesterday.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:57:18.223Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1677f7e2-adf1-11f1-b1ca-7ffa3dd6f8d7\">Still no attacks from the peloton, but there is no a change at the front as EF take over. That suggests Carapaz is going to try something, having failed with an attack earlier.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:51:42.460Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4e39ea9c-adf0-11f1-8620-5b8c3d847292\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A change in the peloton, as Movistar take over from Red Bull. They still have two teammates (Garcia Pierna and Romeo) to work for Mas, with Castrillo also up the road in reserve.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Castrillo is also now losing ground to the leaders, and has been caught and passed by both Leknessund and Camprub\u00ed. His hopes of winning a stage are disappearing, so he may be called back by his team.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:46:17.633Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-10km-to-go\"\/>10KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8c87f3ee-adef-11f1-9f6a-c90316fd2230\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Red Bull still lead the peloton with numerous riders, but the pace isn&#8217;t especially high as reflected by the large number of riders still in the peloton.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The break is also managing to hold a big lead over them, with an advantage now over seven minutes. If it wasn&#8217;t already beyond doubt that they would contest the stage, it now surely is.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:42:28.380Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-03e2c640-adef-11f1-a7f7-51f09da4b90e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Red Bull are trying to put him under pressure, but for now Mas remains comfortable in the peloton.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Up ahead in the break, Berrade has joined the leading trio, while Castrillo is also trying to bridge up to them &#8211; he&#8217;s clearly been given some freedom to ride for himself today. Movistar must be feeling confidant.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/o2TR4CYWVqH4M9fShPk2Dg.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Enric Mas of Spain and Movistar Team - Red Leader Jersey competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/o2TR4CYWVqH4M9fShPk2Dg.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/o2TR4CYWVqH4M9fShPk2Dg.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:37:28.177Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-attack-buitrago\"\/>ATTACK &#8211; BUITRAGO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-510af0ec-adee-11f1-a850-a51c54c1888e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After a long turn from his teammate Miguel, Buitrago has attacked from the breakaway group. So far only two riders have gone with him &#8211; Gloag, and, a few bike-lengths behind, Dunbar.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:34:15.792Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-deb65392-aded-11f1-b734-355a3ad310af\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Molard has been brought back after his attack, and the break remains all together. That won&#8217;t last, once the gradient kicks up and the climb starts to get serious.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Meanwhile in the peloton, it&#8217;s still Red Bull leading, showing impressive strength in numbers.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/jc5LU9KLcmtTknxxsEqahe.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Rudy Molard of France and Team Groupama - FDJ United attacks during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/jc5LU9KLcmtTknxxsEqahe.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/jc5LU9KLcmtTknxxsEqahe.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:28:29.751Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1003bee0-aded-11f1-8a95-65eda79d7b55\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There&#8217;s an early attack on the climb in the breakaway group, as Molard tries to get up the road; possibly as a satellite rider for Martin. He&#8217;s dangling a few seconds ahead of the rest.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In the peloton, it&#8217;s Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe who are leading on the lower slopes. They must have something planned for Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:24:15.181Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-penas-blancas\"\/>PENAS BLANCAS <\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-78396218-adec-11f1-ad05-33bac1cf6dd4\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The riders are onto the final climb of the day! It officially climbs at 6.5% for 18.8km, but that average gradient takes into account some much gentler segments &#8211; there actual climb is far harder than those stats make it sound. It&#8217;s long and enough and has sections that are steep enough to cause big time losses for anyone dropped early.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This is set to be a thrilling fight for the stage win, and a dramatic one in the race for GC.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:18:42.285Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b1c78038-adeb-11f1-a271-0179637de772\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Leknessund certainly has the know-how, having taken a stage already earlier in the Vuelta; as does Eddie Dunbar, who claimed a couple at the Vuelta two years ago. The difficulty of the climb could suit him more than it does Leknessund.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And as King of the Mountains, Buitrago is a prominent presence who ought to do well on such a finish, and is seeking a first Vuelta stage win having previously won twice at the Giro.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:15:22.606Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3accf4fe-adeb-11f1-b6a3-799caa4bfd4b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">So who from the break looks the most likely to win the stage?<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Guillaume Martin is the best-placed on GC, but could find himself prioritising making as many gains as possible rather than engaging in the tactical battle to win the stage &#8211; a situation he regularly finds himself in, having not taken a stage win yet in any of his many Grand Tour appearances.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:08:55.156Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-30km-to-go\"\/>30KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-53f23eae-adea-11f1-9620-67bcd1f1eaaa\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The break have done a great job on this valley section, and increased their lead to over 6 and a half minutes. It does now look as though they will survive to fight for the stage win.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T14:01:06.820Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3cb727c8-ade9-11f1-90f1-6f1e1f25ff8b\">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!<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\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> Join today<\/a>. <\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:56:29.534Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-40km-to-go\"\/>40KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-977e54ca-ade8-11f1-83dc-2333c5a87b8b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The riders have reached the bottom of the downhill they&#8217;ve been descending, and now must ride about 20km of valley road before arriving at the foot of the final climb of Pe\u00f1as Blancas.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The break&#8217;s lead has been held at 4:45, which is a healthy one, but not enough to guarantee that the stage winner will come from one of them.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:50:04.921Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b22d950c-ade7-11f1-8fa4-15799d680d38\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Yesterday felt like Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d\u2019s big chance to make a move on to challenge Enric Mas, but though he didn\u2019t make the kind of inroads many expected of him, that does not mean his bid for the red jersey is over.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Rogli\u010d has revealed that time trialling has not been a focus of his lately; which would imply that we shouldn\u2019t read too much into his climbing form based on his time trialling form. He\u2019s still got the ability, know-how and desire to put Mas under pressure on today\u2019s final climb.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/the-last-year-i-dont-think-weve-done-a-single-aero-test-why-time-trials-are-no-longer-a-major-focus-for-primoz-roglic-and-why-the-vuelta-tt-did-not-go-as-red-bull-predicted\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/the-last-year-i-dont-think-weve-done-a-single-aero-test-why-time-trials-are-no-longer-a-major-focus-for-primoz-roglic-and-why-the-vuelta-tt-did-not-go-as-red-bull-predicted\/\" 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\/the-last-year-i-dont-think-weve-done-a-single-aero-test-why-time-trials-are-no-longer-a-major-focus-for-primoz-roglic-and-why-the-vuelta-tt-did-not-go-as-red-bull-predicted\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">&#8216;The last year I don&#8217;t think we&#8217;ve done a single aero test&#8217; \u2013 Why time trials are no longer a major focus for Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d and why the Vuelta TT did not go as Red Bull predicted<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/czARb9NkPiabiqeiBZRv9V.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Enric Mas of Spain and Movistar Team - Red Leader Jersey, Primoz Roglic of Slovenia and Team Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe and Axel Laurance of France and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/czARb9NkPiabiqeiBZRv9V.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/czARb9NkPiabiqeiBZRv9V.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:44:27.237Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e92072c4-ade6-11f1-9e48-b3a306de3964\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">What will Felix Gall do today? He lost his 2nd place on GC to Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d on yesterday\u2019s time trial, and was put on the defensive again earlier in the stage when the man directly behind him on GC, Richard Carapaz, went on the attack.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">We\u2019re approaching his territory again, with a big summit finish at the end of this stage. With 1:24 to make up to take second place back from Rogli\u010d again ,we can expect him to make an attack.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:125.03%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/7M2N3sArqLRFLeAT5hqt8h.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Felix Gall of Austria and Team Decathlon CMA CGM competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/7M2N3sArqLRFLeAT5hqt8h.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/7M2N3sArqLRFLeAT5hqt8h.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:39:24.050Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-60km-to-go\"\/>60KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-34412f38-ade6-11f1-838c-694f2d7cb052\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Not fussed about the stage win, and instead focussed on defending the red jersey, Movistar are happy to set a light tempo and allow the break a big lead approaching five minutes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/LTMVuEy3ntSQYnnHz282hA.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Ivan Romeo of Spain and Movistar Team leads the peloton during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/LTMVuEy3ntSQYnnHz282hA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/LTMVuEy3ntSQYnnHz282hA.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:32:23.164Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39d3a95e-ade5-11f1-83e1-6beb38a123e2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Movistar have implemented the same plan that has served them so well since Enric Mas took the red jersey, putting Pablo Castrillo up the road as a satellite rider for later on. The remainder of their roster are setting the pace at the front of the peloton, with assistance from Onley\u2019s Netompany Ineos team.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Mas and Movistar again look firmly in control, after a very successful time trial yesterday. Mas is clearly feeling very confident, and not holding back talking about what great shape he\u2019s in.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-39d3a95e-ade5-11f1-83e1-6beb38a123e2-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/it-wasnt-my-best-time-trial-enric-mas-plays-down-superb-tt-performance-that-clears-road-for-overall-vuelta-a-espana-victory\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/it-wasnt-my-best-time-trial-enric-mas-plays-down-superb-tt-performance-that-clears-road-for-overall-vuelta-a-espana-victory\/\" 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-wasnt-my-best-time-trial-enric-mas-plays-down-superb-tt-performance-that-clears-road-for-overall-vuelta-a-espana-victory\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">&#8216;It wasn&#8217;t my best time trial&#8217; &#8211; Enric Mas plays down superb TT performance that clears road for overall Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a victory<\/a><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:26:29.280Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-668f1eac-ade4-11f1-841f-8794905e39e3\">Both Pinarello and Groupama-FDJ (save for Tronchon\u2019s stage win) have been quiet for most of this Vuelta, but are doing a great job today, having each got three riders into the breakaway. Also with multiple riders in it are Equipo Kern Pharma and Bahrain-Victorious with two each.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:19:14.118Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-633c7b2e-ade3-11f1-b562-9f0425021418\">If this breakaway is to succeed, it will be the first stage since last Thursday will be won from a rider not representing either Visma-Lease a Bike or Tudor Pro Cycling, who have enjoyed a sweep of wins lately with their respective men Wout van Aert and Matthew Brennan, and Marco Brenner and Stefan K\u00fcng. Both teams failed to get anyone in the break today.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:11:55.013Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-80km-to-go\"\/>80KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5d5571a8-ade2-11f1-acab-0100fec98352\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Things have, at long last, settled down. Ever since bringing back the Carapaz chase group, the peloton has slowed down, allowing the lead group of 16 riders to build a lead of 2:30. We at last have a clear break of the day.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The problem is, they don&#8217;t have very long to build enough of a lead to hold off the chase from the peloton later on, with just 60km left to ride until arriving at the foot of the final climb. The break will have to work well to give themselves a chance of making it to the finish to contest for the stage win.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T13:03:29.706Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3051124e-ade1-11f1-bd86-315e7acf3ef9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Carapaz&#8217;s venture is over, as the peloton bring him back. His group managed to get a lead of about 30 seconds, but his GC rivals were not happy to let him build upon that.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That means there&#8217;s only one group now ahead of the peloton &#8211; a lead group of about 15 riders, about 1:30 ahead, and featuring Buitrago, and G Martin (who, in 13th, i the highest placed man on GC in it).<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:57:27.193Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-57f38170-ade0-11f1-8279-4ff470177276\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Decathlon are doing the bulk of the chasing at the front of the peloton, rather than Mas\u2019 Movistar, and have sent Sander De Pestel from the lead group to help the pace-setting.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This is in defence of their leader Gall\u2019s third place on GC, and it\u2019s an undeniably defensive tactic &#8211; if they were being bolder, and intended to try to put Mas under pressure, they could have forced him to use up his Movistar teammates to bring Carapaz back, and then try to put the isolated red jersey under pressure with attacks.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:53:55.800Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d9fb7372-addf-11f1-9def-553875880dbf\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">You sense EF have been hatching a plan all day, having been active at the front, and as one of the teams especially keen not to let the early breaks go clear.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">They&#8217;ve now succeeded in getting Carapaz up the road, but will be frustrated that their GC rivals are on the defensive &#8211; at the front of the peloton, Movistar are receiving help from Decathlon and Netcompany.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/PsndHmSxnm65ZXA3ECTs9g.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Georg Steinhauser of Germany and Team EF Education - EasyPost and Guillaume Martin of France and Team Groupama - FDJ United compete during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/PsndHmSxnm65ZXA3ECTs9g.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/PsndHmSxnm65ZXA3ECTs9g.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:48:44.867Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-attack-carapaz\"\/>ATTACK &#8211; CARAPAZ<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-20afa776-addf-11f1-8a5e-f509d5de990c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Richard Carapaz is at it again! The man in fourth-place on GC has used the descent of the climb to try and catch his rivals napping, and is part of small group that has a gap of a few seconds over the peloton. He&#8217;s 5:17 down on Mas, but not the kind of man he can afford to give too much leeway to.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:43:51.023Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-puerto-del-viento\"\/>KOM &#8211; PUERTO DEL VIENTO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-71c841e6-adde-11f1-8f43-fd0004f65c53\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Dunbar continues to lead the race over the top of the climb, and so takes the KOM points. Behind follows a chase group of about 20 riders, about 15 seconds behind, including Buitrago.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s looking more promising for that group to join up to Dunbar and (finally) form the break of the day, as the peloton is about a minute adrift. But things still haven&#8217;t settled, and more attacks come out of it as they near the summit.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:38:09.193Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a5db7594-addd-11f1-94c8-d9e31c68f424\">The riders have been climbing the category two Puerto del Viento (the penultimate climb of the day; officially, at least), and Eddie Dunbar had managed to build a bit of a lead. He&#8217;s being chased down by another group of hopefuls, among whom include the King of the Mountains Santiago Buitrago.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:34:19.778Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1cfcfbee-addd-11f1-93ab-9777ea1ec4c8\">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!<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\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> Join today<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:30:47.910Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9eb8a260-addc-11f1-8270-d91ab86acd16\">So the action has re-set, and a new wave of attacks have come as riders try to form a new break. This has gone on for over 100km now &#8211; surely the longest battle to form a break at this Vuelta, and possible of the whole season.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/V7bqPPtinKwWgJvKFAceVV.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the peloton passing through a landscape during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/V7bqPPtinKwWgJvKFAceVV.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/V7bqPPtinKwWgJvKFAceVV.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:24:14.036Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-110km-to-go\"\/>110KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b41f2224-addb-11f1-9b76-494e661bda8f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">We&#8217;re almost halfway into the stage, and the race has just all come back together! Numerous riders had joined the lead group, to swell it to about 20 riders, but Netcompany Ineos paced at the front of the peloton to bring it back. The peloton is much smaller now as a result of how high the pace has been, but as things stand, there is no breakaway group.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:18:10.691Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-db642b0a-adda-11f1-a0b7-5f497eb0fe1e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This has been a truly relentless start to the stage, but there are signs, at last, that things might be about to calm down. For the first time all day, the peloton bunched up at the front, an indication that many are wanting to let the break go clear.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But there are still some unhappy and wanting to join the leaders up the road, and another flurry of attacks begins.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/tVLLXsdyVceG5HRhZichLg.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the peloton compete climbing to the Puerto de las Abejas (823m) during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/tVLLXsdyVceG5HRhZichLg.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/tVLLXsdyVceG5HRhZichLg.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:11:44.316Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-puerto-de-las-abejas\"\/>KOM &#8211; PUERTO DE LAS ABEJAS <\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f51ff886-add9-11f1-ad57-631fbe9e935b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Leknessund led the lead group over the top of the climb, and since then they have been joined by a group of chasers. Briefly it looked as though Oscar Onley might be join, too, as he tried a cheeky attack, but the Brit (who is 5th on GC) did not manage to slip clear.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">As they descend, the leaders are 20 seconds ahead of the peloton).<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T12:06:57.981Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4a72e3b2-add9-11f1-a136-8d939c491396\">A few riders have managed to join the leaders &#8211; Zana, Van Bekkum and Faura. Plus Eddie Dunbar, who bridged up earlier. While the break and the peloton remain so close on the road, the race is very much in flux.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:57:52.352Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-05245bc0-add8-11f1-8b61-0dd9def04198\">Vimsa-Lease a Bike are hatching a plan for Sepp Kuss. Kruijswijk dropped back from the front group to help pace him up after attacking from the peloton. So far, though, he hasn&#8217;t been able to join up to the leaders; nor has anyone else in the peloton, which remains 10 seconds behind the leaders as they climb the final 5km to the summit.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:51:51.169Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-130km-to-go\"\/>130KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2de49418-add7-11f1-b3c9-6b08e3ebd4c6\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The constant action at the front of the peloton as more riders try to escape to join the break on the climb is keeping the lead group (picture below, although it&#8217;s now made up of seven riders, since S\u00fctterlin was dropped) well within sight. They&#8217;re just a few seconds ahead, and the battle to form the break is far from over.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/gt9LDstF8XsqUZKXDxZeH8.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: Andreas Leknessund of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility competes in the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/gt9LDstF8XsqUZKXDxZeH8.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/gt9LDstF8XsqUZKXDxZeH8.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:41:57.463Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cc15483c-add5-11f1-b6dd-27da324eac1e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The riders are on the Puerto de las Abejas, the first of the day&#8217;s three climbs. It&#8217;s not the hardest of the day, averaging just 4.3%, but its length of 14.6km will ensure that climbers who want to get into the break have a chance.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One such rider is Santiago Buitrago, who Pello Bilbao attempted to launch up the road, but he has managed to go clear of the peloton yet. As it stands, there are 30 seconds between them in the peloton and the seven leaders up the road.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:34:46.542Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-140km-to-go\"\/>140KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cb2aeaea-add4-11f1-a6d7-012672cda00e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This leading group of seven is working well together, and have built a lead of 47 &#8211; which must be the biggest gap any group has managed all day so far.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The action is still very on in the peloton, where the attacks keep coming, and promises to continue to do so when they reach the day&#8217;s first climb in just a few kilometres.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:29:21.339Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-094d0b7e-add4-11f1-8136-8d75ba309afb\">The irrepressible Kevin Vermaerke is on the attack again. Aware that he&#8217;s a superior climber, his UAE teammate Oliveira dropped back to pace him, and the duo have just joined the five leaders. Together, they&#8217;re now 35 seconds ahead of the peloton.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:24:00.201Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-49ef4652-add3-11f1-b027-cfcf0568aa89\">Oliveira, Tronchon, and Johannessen (but not Weiess &#8211; he&#8217;s dropped back) have now bridged up to Leknessund, Kruijswijk and S\u00fctterlin, but the new front group are only a mere 20 seconds ahead of the peloton. It seems like there is enough in the peloton unhappy with the situation to not allow them to form the day&#8217;s break.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:17:05.215Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-52b5bb0a-add2-11f1-a724-a7444f02c9d4\">There is plenty of firepower in the chase group trying to join Leknessund, Kruijswijk and S\u00fctterlin. Oliveira, Johannessen, Tronchon and Weiss have formed a quartet, and are now just 10 seconds behind, and 30 seconds ahead of the peloton, where things still haven&#8217;t settled down.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:10:35.476Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6a549a84-add1-11f1-8d07-9b52aba24313\">Leknessund, Kruijswijk and S\u00fctterlin are still leading, now 45 seconds up on the peloton. In between, some chasers are trying to join them. The fight is still on an the intensity remains high.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/wNdhLRgzqcPbvKjN94nqKL.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Andreas Leknessund of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility and Jasha Sutterlin of Germany and Team Jayco AlUla compete in the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/wNdhLRgzqcPbvKjN94nqKL.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/wNdhLRgzqcPbvKjN94nqKL.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T11:04:00.356Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7ebda5c0-add0-11f1-9496-c1e93fe245d1\">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!<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\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> Join today<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:57:49.451Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-170km-to-go\"\/>170KM TO GO<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a1b2d326-adcf-11f1-8c44-fb47b46e69cc\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After 40km of attacking, this trio of Leknessund, Kruijswijk and S\u00fctterlin is the first to manage to stay out for some time and build a promising lead. They&#8217;ve got 25 seconds as things stand.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/RnSwyyk4zHotMiykCAqcTV.jpg\" alt=\"ESTEPONA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Andreas Leknessund of Norway and Team Uno-X Mobility and Jasha Sutterlin of Germany and Team Jayco AlUla compete in the breakaway during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Penas Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Estepona, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/RnSwyyk4zHotMiykCAqcTV.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/RnSwyyk4zHotMiykCAqcTV.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:51:42.418Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c70fa532-adce-11f1-b611-9f86597e2580\">Jasha S\u00fctterlin, stage winner Andreas Leknessund and soon-to-retire Steven Kruijswijk are the latest to try an attack. It&#8217;s great to see the latter on the move and having some fun for himself, having done so much tireless work at the front of this Vuelta controlling the race for his Visma teammates Wout van Aert and Matthew Brennan. What a story it would be if he could take a stage win on the last Grand Tour of his career.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:44:39.254Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-dnf-paul-double\"\/>DNF &#8211; PAUL DOUBLE<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-caaab020-adcd-11f1-bfd7-4394a5b0d344\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Paul Double has abandoned the race. There&#8217;s been no crash we&#8217;re aware of, but the Brit has been struggling at this Vuelta, and was second-to-last at the bottom of the GC. Hard-going for a man whois primarily a climber.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:37:53.906Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d913b824-adcc-11f1-8a47-cbd774656947\">There have been plenty of attacks, but still nothing sticking, an 8-man group the latest to try to no avail. This looks set to go on for a while longer yet.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:73.93%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/dcijTwadfsxRZAkyuDQfaf.jpg\" alt=\"VELEZ-MALAGA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: A general view of the peloton competing during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Pe&amp;ntilde;as Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Velez-Malaga, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/dcijTwadfsxRZAkyuDQfaf.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/dcijTwadfsxRZAkyuDQfaf.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:30:45.648Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d9e33ee2-adcb-11f1-b6ce-53b11bf1a1a1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Hannes Wilksch and Mats Wenzel were the latest to try a move, but, along with a flurry of poursuivants, have all be swept up back into the peloton.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The latter&#8217;s Equipo Kern Pharma is especially eager for some success today, given the doubt surrounding their future as they continue to seek a new sponsor.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d9e33ee2-adcb-11f1-b6ce-53b11bf1a1a1-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/youve-got-that-pressure-in-your-head-kern-pharma-hit-final-days-of-vuelta-a-espana-in-last-ditch-battle-to-continue-in-2027\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/youve-got-that-pressure-in-your-head-kern-pharma-hit-final-days-of-vuelta-a-espana-in-last-ditch-battle-to-continue-in-2027\/\" 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\/youve-got-that-pressure-in-your-head-kern-pharma-hit-final-days-of-vuelta-a-espana-in-last-ditch-battle-to-continue-in-2027\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">&#8216;You&#8217;ve got that pressure in your head&#8217; &#8211; Kern Pharma hit final days of Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a in last-ditch battle to continue in 2027<\/a><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:20:18.476Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-63f83530-adca-11f1-8a20-ed2a95f65f6f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The attacks are, as expected, coming thick and fast! For the time being we have a group of eight up the road by a few seconds but the situation is very much in flux.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Here were the riders at the start, before hostilities began.<\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/oFvNdLGLfxXCkxpGeoh6GH.jpg\" alt=\"VELEZ-MALAGA&amp;#8203;, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R) Santiago Buitrago of Colombia and Team Bahrain Victorious - Polka dot Mountain Jersey, Enric Mas of Spain and Movistar Team - Red Leader Jersey, Wout Van Aert of Belgium and Team Visma | Lease a Bike - Green points jersey and Oscar Onley of Great Britain and Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team - White best young jersey prior to the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 19 a 210.8km stage from Velez-Malaga to Pe&amp;ntilde;as Blancas. Estepona 1274m \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 11, 2026 in Velez-Malaga, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/oFvNdLGLfxXCkxpGeoh6GH.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/oFvNdLGLfxXCkxpGeoh6GH.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:11:21.180Z<br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-official-start\"\/>OFFICIAL START<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-23bcd09e-adc9-11f1-b127-fb46cb1a390d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And they&#8217;re off! The first third of this flat stage is flat, so it could take a while for a break to form. The riders best brace themselves for a long battle.<\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T10:02:17.724Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-dfe273a2-adc7-11f1-b4e4-7118bdd459ae\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The riders are in the neutralised zone, but one rider not among them is yesterday\u2019s winner Stefan K\u00fcng. That victory made it mission accomplished at this Vuelta for the Swiss time trialist specialist, as well as delivering his Tudor team a second victory following Marco Brenner\u2019s success &#8211; a fantastic return for one of the race\u2019s smaller teams.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/the-morning-after-winning-the-time-trial-stefan-kung-pulls-out-of-the-vuelta-a-espana\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/the-morning-after-winning-the-time-trial-stefan-kung-pulls-out-of-the-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\/the-morning-after-winning-the-time-trial-stefan-kung-pulls-out-of-the-vuelta-a-espana\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">The morning after winning the time trial, Stefan K\u00fcng pulls out of the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/B64bW3iPNPWZjJKtC3UFpg.jpg\" alt=\"Team Tudor Pro Cycling Team's Swiss rider Stefan Kung celebrates on the podium after winning the 18th stage of the Vuelta a Espana 2026 cycling tour, a 32,1 km individual time-trial race between El Puerto de Santa Maria and Jerez de la Frontera, on September 10, 2026. (Photo by JORGE GUERRERO \/ AFP)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/B64bW3iPNPWZjJKtC3UFpg.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/B64bW3iPNPWZjJKtC3UFpg.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2026-09-11T09:54:56.278Z<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d8c06170-adc6-11f1-afd4-2df8e572c435\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There was a sense after yesterday\u2019s time trial that Enric Mas had passed the all-important test at yesterday\u2019s time trial, holding off the challenge by Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d in a discipline he excels less at with a healthy lead at the top of the classification still intact<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">However, this race is far from over &#8211; and today\u2019s parcours is prime territory for an ambush. As one of the few to exceed 200km , and with plenty of climbing along the way, including a summit finish, both he and his Movistar team must be alert, and again need to rise to the occasion.<\/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-19-preview\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/vuelta-a-espana-2026-stage-19-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-19-preview\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2026 stage 19 preview &#8211; Roads rising above Costa del Sol offer hunting grounds for breakaway riders and GC gains<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\">\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ewwAT77YfjaizSijXstq3g.jpg\" alt=\"JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 10: Enric Mas of Spain and Movistar Team - Red Leader Jersey competes during the La Vuelta - 81st Tour of Spain 2026, Stage 18 a 32.1km individual time trial stage from El Puerto de Santa Maria to Jerez de la Frontera \/ #UCIWT \/ on September 10, 2026 in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\"   loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ewwAT77YfjaizSijXstq3g.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ewwAT77YfjaizSijXstq3g.jpg\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] inline\"\/>\n<\/p>\n<p>(Image credit: Getty Images)<a id=\"elk-seasonal\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\"\/><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fd069fe4-98d2-11f1-bc3d-73f3269be173\">Hello and welcome to stage 19 of the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"2026-09-11T15:09:06.891Z 1KM TO GO Dunbar is trying to chase Buitrago by himself, but still has ten seconds to&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":891887,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[445],"tags":[49,48,635,82],"class_list":["post-891886","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-cycling","tag-ca","tag-canada","tag-cycling","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/891886","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=891886"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/891886\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/891887"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=891886"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=891886"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=891886"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}