Stage ۱۵ of the Vuelta took place under conditions where temperatures reached above ۴۰ degrees Celsius, prompting the organizers to decide to shorten the race distance. As a result, the ۱۸۹.۷-kilometer route from Palmadalrio to Córdoba was changed to ۱۱۰.۲ kilometers. In these hot conditions, Van Aert from the Jumbo-Visma team showcased his power, securing his second victory in this competition.
A Breathtaking Competition in the Heat
The stage began with a fast start and continuous attacks. A group of ۱۱ cyclists at the start of the route aimed to break records, but the peloton quickly maintained a gap of about ۴۵ seconds. Midway through, Norwegian cyclist Anders Løkke Sundt made a solo attack, and then his teammates, Remco Evenepoel and Van Aert, joined him.
Relentless Effort and Final Victory
Van Aert ultimately crossed the finish line, raising his hands in victory, emphasizing his superiority over his rivals. He outpaced Alessandro Rommel and Thibaut Pinot in this stage, who, despite their early efforts, could not compete with his strength. The peloton, which included the main competitors in the overall standings, crossed the line two and a half minutes behind Van Aert.
As the competition continues, cyclists will take a rest day on Monday to prepare for Stage ۱۶, which will cover ۱۸۱.۱ kilometers from La Rabida to Palo de la Frontera. This stage is also expected to provide another opportunity for the fast cyclists.
