Vuelta: Pablo Castrillo wins, O Connor strengthens the overall lead

Vuelta: Pablo Castrillo wins, O Connor strengthens the overall lead

on the ongoing tour of Spain, there was another exciting competition in which the favorites took a step back to the red jersey. In a gripping twelfth stage, which led to Estacion de Montaña de Manzaneda over 137.5 kilometers from Ourense, Spanish cyclist Pablo Castrillo was able to prevail. In an exciting final, he prevailed in a ten -member group of outliers against the British Max Poole and secured the day's victory.

The main focus of the favorites for the overall ranking was not on a direct duel on this day. This decision caused them to reach the goal with a gap of 6:29 minutes. The Australian Ben O’Connor currently leads and thus remains the key player in this tour. His lead over the three-time overall winner Primoz Roglic from the German Red Bull team is 3:16 minutes.

The outlook on upcoming stages

For the coming days there are exciting challenges. Especially the mountain arrival in Puerto de Ancares, which will be reached in the next stage after 176 kilometers, could mean a turn in the competition. This mountain arrival is part of the first category, which makes the route a major challenge for the drivers and Roglic could offer another chance to catch up.

The Vuelta a España, which ends in Madrid on September 8, remains a hotly competitive event with many strangers. While Castrillo is now celebrating his day's victory, the question of how the favorites will react to the upcoming stage to the overall victory, especially Roglic.

This twelfth stage underlines the strategic depth and tactical ability that is required in a large race like the Vuelta. The favorite's decision not to interfere in the outlier group could turn out to be wise or risky, depending on how the remaining stages develop.

The tension remains high, and the next few days will show whether the leaders can defend their positions or whether another driver will secure the red jersey. Cycling fans can look forward to the next chapter of this prestigious race.