Stage 20 was the queen stage of the Vuelta 2024: seven categorised climbs, more than 4,700 metres of climbing. As if these challenges were not enough as the Vuelta 2024 draws to a close, Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe had to face additional difficulties. A wave of illness hit the team overnight.
The result: Dani Martinez and Patrick Gamper were unfortunately forced to abandon the stage, while Aleks Vlasov arrived on the Picón Blanco 34 minutes behind and Nico Denz fought valiantly to be the last rider to cross the finish line.
Patxi Vila:
"A wave of illness has swept over us overnight. We are currently investigating whether food poisoning or any other reason is the cause. Several staff members have been affected and have had to pull out of today's stage. Also, Nico, Gampi, Dani and Aleks were unwell during the stage. We will gather now and will focus on tomorrow's final stage."
During the stage, Giovanni Aleotti, Roger Adriá and Florian Lipowitz grouped around Primož Roglič and his red jersey. The last steep kilometres of the final climb suited Roglič. He crossed the line in third place and added another 8 seconds to his lead.
Florian Lipowitz finished the day with another good result. The youngster once again finished in the top ten and moved up to 7th place in the overall standings. He is about to complete his first Grand Tour.
Primož Roglič has now increased his lead to 2'02" ahead of tomorrow's final time trial. He will be the last rider to tackle the 24.6km through Madrid. He will roll off the start ramp at 19:04.