Return to Action: Will Big Name Falter?
Stage 6 of the 2024 Vuelta a España: A Challenging Uphill Finish at Larra Belagua
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Published September 2, 2024, at 05:57 AM EDT
Stage Overview
Stage 6 of the 2024 Vuelta a España presents a notable challenge for riders, especially after a rest day.While not the most vertically demanding stage in terms of total climbing kilometers,the consistently increasing difficulty throughout the course will punish any rider lacking form. The stage covers 187.6 kilometers from Sabiñánigo to El Ferial Larra.
The route features the third-category Alto de las Coronas at the 120km mark. Following the descent, the peloton will encounter a continuous uphill gradient leading to the finish line in El Ferial Larra. This final ascent, the Larra Belagua, is a Category 1 climb averaging over six percent for 9.4 kilometers.
The Larra Belagua Climb
The Larra Belagua climb is expected to be decisive. It previously featured in the 2023 Vuelta a España, where Remco Evenepoel delivered a strong performance during an escape (Cyclingnews). Race Director Fernando Escartín emphasized that this climb will once again be the focal point of the stage, likely determining the stage winner.
Race Implications
The post-rest day nature of the stage adds an extra layer of uncertainty. Riders who haven’t fully recovered or adapted to the change in routine could find themselves struggling. Jonas Vingegaard, the overall leader, faces a strategic dilemma: will he attempt to extend his lead, or will he respond to potential attacks from his rivals who where challenged on Sunday’s stage? The steep gradients of the Larra Belagua provide ample opportunity for significant time gains or losses.
According to VeloNews, the final climb is expected to see aggressive racing from contenders like Vingegaard, Sepp Kuss, and João Almeida.
Race Director’s Viewpoint
Fernando Escartín, Race Director: “Navarre returns to La Vuelta with a winding uphill stage towards the French border. The Larra Belagua climb, which made its debut in La Vuelta 23 with Remco Evenepoel giving a true master class during the escape, will again be the star of the race two years later. The final climb will determine the stage winner.”