"A few weeks ago I couldn't even pedal" - Primoz Roglic's remarkable recovery sees veteran jump to second overall

Cycling
Tuesday, 25 August 2026 at 23:00
Primoz Roglic crosses the line on stage 4 of the 2026 Vuelta a Espana
The 2026 Vuelta a Espana may be over already after its fourth stage. Tadej Pogacar left no room for doubts as he cruised to a solo victory following a 50-kilometer attack. However behind the red jersey, a thrilling battle for the remaining podium spots takes place. And against many predicitions, Primoz Roglic is part of the group of contenders.

How the stage unfolded

In an attempt to put opponents, perhaps even Pogace, under pressure, it was Felix Gall's team Decathlon CMA CGM which kept the pace high through the first half of today's stage, neutralizing all breakaway attempts. And with 50 kilometers to go, the Slovenian accelerated away from the rest of GC contenders. Eventually winning by 2:39.
Behind, Roglic took a more conservative approach, but swiftly returned to the main group with which he concluded the stage 4 in seventh place. Combined with a strong opening time trial, this sees the Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe rider move up to second overall, 3:21 behind Pogacar.
That's an enormous effort from the rider whose start at this Vuelta alone was threatened after a collision with car during a training three weeks before the Spanish Grand Tour. But the 36-year-old never doubted he'd be able to make the start fit and ready to compete.

"Happy just to be there"

"I'll say it again, a few weeks ago I couldn't even pedal. I'm happy, completely exhausted but happy to be here. I'm always here to win. Today is a small victory for me. I hope to achieve more results," Roglic said afterwards.
Primoz Roglic crosses the line on stage 4 of the 2026 Vuelta a Espana
Primoz Roglic crosses the line on stage 4 of the 2026 Vuelta a Espana
It seems as though this year's Vuelta offers no time to rest. Every stage is a potentially key day with many possible pitfalls. The upcoming fifth stage appears to be the kindest in that regard with several shorter ascents located in its second half, but most likely not undulating enough for GC riders to go to arms.
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