Pogačar makes ominous start at Spanish Vuelta as history beckons
Cycling superstar Tadej Pogačar claims the Spanish Vuelta's red jersey for the first time as he looks to make history.
Tadej Pogačar secured victory in the opening time trial of the Spanish Vuelta, claiming the red jersey for the first time. The Slovenian cyclist finished 0.09 seconds ahead of British rider Ethan Hayter, as several of Pogačar's main rivals did not participate in this early stage. Pogačar, who aims to become the ninth rider to win all three Grand Tours, took the lead from the start by completing the challenging 9.5-kilometre Monaco course in 10 minutes and 57 seconds.
Hayter, who was initially confident of his win, watched in disbelief as Pogačar accelerated towards the finish line, ultimately claiming the win by just a whisker. Hayter ultimately finished four seconds behind his rival. Pogačar's first Grand Tour appearance since his debut in 2019 saw him win three stages and secure third place in the overall standings.
This Spanish Vuelta triumph marks his first win in the opening stage of a Grand Tour, and the first time he has taken the red jersey as the Vuelta leader. Pogačar is the only eighth rider to achieve the feat, joining a prestigious list that includes Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Jacques Anquetil, Alberto Contador, Chris Froome, Felice Gimondi, Vincenzo Nibali, and Jonas Vingegaard.
The Spanish Vuelta's start in Monaco made it the first city to host the opening stage of all three Grand Tours. The race will continue with the second stage beginning in Monaco before a grueling 214.3km hilly trek through Provence, culminating in the final stage in Granada on September 13.
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