Remco Evenepoel: "I shouldn't attack. Control is the goal, When the opportunity arises I might do something"

The thirteenth stage of Vuelta a Espana concluded with Mads Pedersen's win. Remco Evenepoel finished in 25th place.

It was a quiet day for him without much to do except defend his red jersey. While he did try to use gloves to protect the infection in his palm, he says it was too uncomfortable and won’t use it again." I won't wear them again tomorrow. They irritated me immensely during the ride," said Evenepoel.

He explains his wounds from yesterday’s crash did not affect him very much, “We have a good doctor and physiotherapist here, so normally everything is under control."

He is still not sure about the plan he should follow in the next stage since adding another victory won’t hurt, but there is the chance of losing time if he used too much energy. “I don't know what to expect. It seems like a very nice stage again, but I don't want to lose any time. That's the most important. In itself, the climbs are not that difficult because they are not too steep. But it is the sequence, the length, and heat that may play a role,” said Evenepoel.

He continues, "My plan? Defend. I shouldn't attack. Control is the goal, like Thursday. Only when the opportunity arises I might do something. But I just have to try to keep my lead.” He currently enjoys top postin in GC with the lead of 2 minutes and 41 seconds over his closest rival, Primoz Roglic.