Mads Pedersen brings in third consecutive third place at Vuelta: "If you never try, you certainly won't win"

Mads Pedersen and Trek - Segafredo have had a very strong performance at the Vuelta a Espana today, and once again they came very close to succeeding in what would be a meaningful stage win.

Pedersen was not seen as an outright contender to win the first stage of the Vuelta in Spanish territory, however the Dane has shown incredible form and had Trek - Segafredo ride in the front all day long. “The last climb at twenty kilometers from the finish was quite tough. The team rode at the foot there, so I could survive the steep part," Pedersen said after the stage.

Pedersen made it into the final hilltop, and with the consevative pace rode up the first half, he comfortably slid into second position as Kenny Elissonde led him out. It was a perfect day for Trek until then, but Primoz Roglic spoiled what would be Pedersen's first win in the Spanish Grand Tour. “Primož was clearly the strongest. To be beaten by him on such a climb is okay. I went for a top 10 place, so I'm happy with the result," he said however. 

Pedersen has now finished second on all three road stages at the Vuelta so far. Although he's missed out on the win he largely closed the gap to Sam Bennett in the points classification, and has shown tremendous form which will be useful in the coming weeks. “The form is good. We are here to try and win the green jersey and every day we try to get points, and we did that again today," the Dane pointed out.

"I have to thank the team because they were very impressive. I know I can handle those finals. It's difficult in such a strong peloton, but if you never try, you certainly won't win. We tried and finished second, taking points for the green. We can be satisfied," he concluded.