Valverde: Mas is the favorite, but everyone knows what Roglič can do

Alejandro Valverde sees Enric Mas as the rider to beat at this year’s Vuelta a España, but he is not discounting Primož Roglič. “For me Enric is the favorite today, but you cannot be overly confident. We know who Roglič is,” Valverde told EFE during a visit to the race in Cartagena.

The Spanish cycling selector and 2018 world champion said Roglič may no longer be at his former level, but the four-time Vuelta winner remains in contention. A time trial in the third week could give the Slovenian an opportunity to regain time.

Valverde also believes the mountains give Mas an edge over the rest of the field. Mas and Roglič currently occupy the top positions in the race, he said, with the others behind them. Valverde found the Movistar rider in good form, motivated and determined to finally take first place after finishing second three times and third once.

“

For me Enric is the favorite today, but you cannot be overly confident. We know who Roglič is.

“Enric has been through difficult moments and now he looks good,” Valverde said. He added that Mas had endured setbacks in his career, learned from them and was especially motivated because he has consistently performed well in the Vuelta.

The penultimate stage, which will finish at Collado del Alguacil for the first time, could decide the race. Valverde called it extremely demanding and said riders must reach it in the best condition possible. Looking ahead to the Montreal World Championships, he said Juan Ayuso and Mas will be fixed members of Spain’s team and its leaders. The full squad will be announced on Sept. 7.

“

Enric has been through difficult moments and now he looks good.