"This came close to perfection" - Attila Valter takes on Vuelta a Burgos lead as Jumbo-Visma obliterates competition

Jumbo-Visma were the main favourites to win today's team time-trial at the Vuelta a Burgos and they delivered. Attila Valter took up the race lead after the effort, but he maintains the stance that Primoz Roglic's support is the priority.

“That will be difficult, because we have a pretty strong rider in the team with Primož Roglič," he told Wielerflits when asked if he will try to defend the lead of the Spanish race. "This came close to perfection. For the team this is also important in preparation for Vuelta. I myself enjoyed it. I have ridden many individual time trials, but this is still a big difference. You do it as a team, which also means that the rest can hurt you. It demands a lot from you.”

The 13-kilometer team time-trial is an important day for the overall classification, but also a warm-up for the Vuelta a Espana where the opening day will see a similar effort. Whilst several teams struggled with pacing and had to wait for riders in the end, Jumbo-Visma maintained the pace towards the end. Although it may not have been the decisive factor, the Dutch team won with 19 seconds over Movistar.

“Riders like Edoardo Affini and Roglič really put you on the limit, but that went well. They did a lot of work, but as a team we did a good job. I am very happy with this victory," the Hungarian continued. He crossed the finish line first, most likely a purposeful move to see a rider who is a valuable domestique being rewarded for his work this year.

Tomorrow will be an important day for the GC as the riders reach the mountains with a very hard finale. Valter will not be the Jumbo-Visma rider under eye, but a quality climber, he presents the team with the chance to work with numbers.

“I hope Roglič wins and I have to support him in that," he states however, keeping himself grounded despite today's success. "Of course I am happy and proud of this jersey. I'm going to enjoy it, but my role won't change. I hope I can also finish high, if only Primož wins.”