"Normally I’m pretty bored in these stages" – Torstein Traeen gets to savour Red Jersey on quiet Stage 8 for GC contenders at La Vuelta 2025

For Torstein Traeen, Stage 8 of the 2025 Vuelta a Espana was a welcome reprieve. The Norwegian maintained his 2:33 lead over Jonas Vingegaard at the top of the general classification, on a day that saw minimal challenges to his Red Jersey. For Traeen, who has spent much of his career away from the spotlight, today’s relatively calm stage provided a chance to reflect on his place at the front of the race.

“To be honest, normally I’m pretty bored in these stages,” Traeen admitted after the stage. “But today, I was enjoying it a bit more than yesterday. It was less stressful, and we weren’t so nervous about losing the jersey. It was easier to enjoy.”

While the general classification contenders had little to worry about in terms of major time gaps or threats, the Norwegian leader was quick to downplay his enjoyment of the situation. “I haven’t looked much at the course,” Traeen continued. “We’ll see what happens tomorrow.”

The day was undoubtedly quieter for the GC contenders. With no significant climbs or decisive attacks, the stage passed in a more subdued manner compared to the high-stakes, aggressive phases of previous days. For riders like Traeen, who has rarely held such a prominent position in a Grand Tour, the change in pace allowed for a rare moment of ease at the front.

Traeen’s ability to hold onto the Red Jersey for another day is no small feat, especially as the Vuelta heads into tougher terrain. However, his relaxed attitude towards today’s relatively stress-free stage suggests he is staying grounded and focused on the challenges still to come. Tomorrow will undoubtedly bring more intensity as the race enters its most testing phases.

For now, though, the Norwegian is making the most of a rare moment of calm — one he knows will be fleeting as the demands of the Vuelta ramp up in the days ahead.