Jonas Vingegaard has positioned himself on the brink of cycling immortality, virtually securing the 2025 Vuelta a España crown with a devastating display of climbing prowess on the legendary Alto de l'Angliru.
A Masterclass on the Angliru
The Danish sensation, already a two-time Tour de France champion, dropped his final rival, Wout van Aert, with over six kilometres remaining on the fearsome 12.4km climb. He then proceeded to time trial his way to a spectacular solo stage victory, crossing the line a massive one minute and 26 seconds clear.
This emphatic win extends Vingegaard's overall lead to an unassailable two minutes and 21 seconds over Van Aert, making Sunday's largely processional stage into Madrid a coronation ride.
From Hospital Bed to History Books
Vingegaard's victory is a story of remarkable resilience. His participation was in serious doubt after a horrific crash in the spring left him hospitalised. To return and not only compete but dominate the toughest mountains in Spain speaks volumes of his physical and mental fortitude.
"It means everything," an emotional Vingegaard stated after the stage. "After my crash, I didn't know if I could come back at this level. To win the Vuelta, and especially on a climb like the Angliru, is a dream."
Tactical Perfection and a Display of Pure Power
The stage was a tactical masterclass from the Visma-Lease a Bike team. They controlled the tempo throughout the day before unleashing their leader on the steepest gradients. While Van Aert bravely tried to follow, Vingegaard's acceleration was simply too powerful.
Former teammate and rival Primoz Roglic, now with Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, finished third on the stage but was never a threat to the Dane's overall lead.
Completing the Grand Tour Set
By winning in Madrid, Vingegaard will complete a career Grand Tour set, adding the Vuelta title to his Tour de France victories. This cements his status as one of the greatest stage racers of his generation and sets the stage for an enthralling 2026 season.
The cycling world now watches in awe as a new king of the mountains prepares to claim his throne in the Spanish capital.
