Pogacar wins Vuelta a España opener by nine-hundredths of a second, takes red jersey

Tadej Pogacar claimed the opening stage of the Vuelta a España in his hometown of Monaco, securing the first red jersey of the race by the slimmest of margins – just nine-hundredths of a second. The Slovenian star demonstrated his dominance, starting the Grand Tour as he finished the Tour de France, leaving little for his rivals.

Pogacar's victory came after a thrilling time trial where Joshua Tarling of Great Britain initially set the fastest time. Tarling, competing just eight days after his brother Finlay's tragic death in a cycling accident, rode with immense emotion and determination. He had hoped to honor his brother with a win, but modern professional cycling proved unforgiving.

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Thanks to nine-hundredths of a second, he took the stage and seized the first red jersey of the Vuelta.

Tarling's time of 11 minutes and 1 second was eventually beaten by his compatriot Ethan Hayter. However, it was Pogacar who ultimately snatched the victory, showcasing his incredible form. This marks the first time Pogacar has worn the leader's red jersey in the Vuelta, a sight likely to become familiar throughout the race.

The stage win underscores Pogacar's status as the rider to watch in this year's Vuelta. His performance in Monaco suggests he is poised to challenge for the overall victory, continuing his remarkable run of success in major cycling events.

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He never wore red before and now he wears it. It suits him perfectly. Get used to it, because everything indicates that you will see that image many times in the Vuelta.