Third in Ourém, Corbin Strong knows what to do better to "upset Kaden and Wout in another sprint"

Right behind the two strongest sprinters at the start of Vuelta a Espana (at last on paper) - Kaden Groves and Wout Van Aert, a fierce battle for third spot unfolded with Israel - Premier Tech's Corbin Strong coming out on top of the mix. With an impressive turn of speed evident in the final meters, the 24-year-old came close to passing runner-up Van Aert and Strong already knows what he can do better to raise his hands next time.

"It was a really fast final 10 kilometers, downhill with a tailwind most of the way, so it was pretty chaotic with a lot of fighting. I let them [Groves and Van Aert] jump first and I think that was a mistake," Strong admits what cost him a shot at the stage win in Ourém.

Read also

ANALYSIS: What we learned from Stage 1 of the 2024 Vuelta a Espana

In Strong's second Grand Tour start (the Kiwi sprinter made a debut at last year's Tour de France) this is his first podium finish. That's definitely something Strong can be proud of. "In the end though, I was happy with the day. I had good speed at the finish and I can be confident that I can upset them in another sprint. Hopefully I can put the hands in the air during this Vuelta."

He'll get another opportunity tomorrow with another uphill sprint in Castelo Branco.

Read also

Julian Alaphilippe set for fresh start at Tudor Pro Cycling Team in 2025

INTERVIEW | Patrick Lefevere on Mikel Landa's Vuelta chances, Remco Evenepoel's plans for the rest of 2024 & a farewell message to Julian Alaphilippe: "I wish him good luck"