Pogačar's sensational solo attack squeezes Vuelta rivals dry

Tadej Pogačar has effectively ended the Vuelta a España as a competitive race, claiming another solo victory and establishing a commanding lead. The Slovenian rider's sensational solo attack, launched with over 50 kilometers remaining, saw him surge ahead of his rivals on the Collada de Beixalis climb. His UAE Emirates XRG team, with Jay Vine setting a high pace, facilitated Pogačar's decisive move. Despite attempts by rivals like Felix Gall to match his acceleration, Pogačar quickly distanced them, demonstrating a gap in class that has become routine for the double-world champion. "When I saw that I could open up a gap, I just hoped I could hold on until the finish. It worked out. It was really tough, but it's a wonderful feeling," Pogačar stated after the race. This victory marks his longest solo effort in a Grand Tour, surpassing his 43km breakaway at the Tour de France. Pogačar's dominance positions him to potentially emulate Tony Rominger's 1994 achievement of leading a Grand Tour from start to finish, a feat accomplished by only nine riders in history. With the World Championships and Il Lombardia on the horizon, Pogačar continues to solidify his status as one of cycling's all-time greats.

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When I saw that I could open up a gap, I just hoped I could hold on until the finish. It worked out. It was really tough, but it's a wonderful feeling.