Jumbo-Visma win initial Vuelta a Espana team time-trial as Robert Gesink takes red jersey

Jumbo-Visma won the opening team time-trial of the Vuelta a Espana, immediately putting on a statement and taking time on their GC rivals, as home rider Robert Gesink lead the team over the line and has become the race's first leader.  

The 23.3-kilometer route had slightly wet roads towards the start, however the skies had mercy on the riders throughout most of the afternoon. It was possible to make gaps on the day, with an ascending order of teams leading to constant changes in the lead. Team BikeExchange - Jayco were the first team to put in a serious time for the top places - topping Groupama - FDJ.

INEOS Grenadiers took 17 seconds on the Australian team at the finish, however with Quick-Step and Jumbo-Visma coming closer, everything pointed towards the Dutch team's win after the intermediate sprint.

Quick-Step failed to bring the British team down at the finish, 1 second down and into seventh place. There were hopes from the British team to keep the lead until the end as Movistar struggled in the final meters, but Jumbo-Visma crossed the line 13 seconds faster. With several home riders there was a specific intent on a gesture, and Robert Gesink was given way to cross the line first to take the first red jersey of the race.