The return to Spain promises to be the hunting ground of Jonas Vingegaard (Visma | lease a bike), undisputed favorite for the final victory. Behind, there is an armada of climbers, especially Juan Ayuso et JOAO ALMEIDA (Uae Team Emirates XRG), who hope to overthrow the Danes. Among them, Mikel Rural Could have been a serious top 3 candidate … if the circumstances had been different. Victim of a heavy fall from the opening of the Giro d'Italiathe Basque of training Soudal Quick-Step suffered from vertebral fractures that have put its in suspense season. Many feared then not to see him again in competition in 2024. His return to the Burgos return Finally reassured, even if the runner is still far from his best level. His 14th place on arrival at the top of Lagunas in Neila, however, showed encouraging signs.
Video – Landa, victim of a terrible fall on the 1st stage of the Giro
“Return to this level after such a shock is not easy”
“The accident was serious and complicated recovery. But in Burgos, especially on stages 3 and 4, Mikel has proven that he is really back, even if he suffered on the last day. Return to this level after such a shock is not easy”explained its sports director Iljo keisse has Bikes. If he recognizes that Landa cannot claim to play the general classification, Keisse remains optimistic about its perspectives: “His condition is still improving, the work accomplished is excellent. He is a leader, demanding but flexible, who knows how to recover quickly. For the Vuelta, we do not expect him to play the general classification. We want him to target stage victories.”
Thus, the Basque should run without pressure, free to waste time at the start of the event in order to target the mountain stages. For such a talented climber, it could well be the best strategy: forget the general and offer his team the prestige of a stage success on The return.
