Mikel Landa focusing on saving Volta a Catalunya podium: "Pogacar is very strong"

Mikel Landa has thus far ridden a brilliant Volta a Catalunya and most likely a place in the podium is the best possible outcome. Against a strong Tadej Pogacar, the Soudal - Quick-Step will try to take advantage of weaknesses but prioritize his position.

“I feel very good and we'll see if we can fight for the stage today," Landa told SpazioCiclismo this morning at the start of the stage. "It's difficult, Pogacar is very strong and in one-on-one situations it's complicated to keep up with him, but we'll be there if will show some weakness."

The Basque climber does believe he can fight for the stage win, having been the closest contestant at both the Vallter 2000 and Port Ainé summit finishes. He started stage 6, the queen stage, 2:27 minutes behind the Slovenian, who already captured two victories this week and is certain for the overall win.

Landa began the final decisive day of the race 28 seconds ahead of Aleksandr Vlasov and 54 ahead of fourth place Lenny Martínez. He sees good results as he returns to his best form.