“This stage is dedicated to Cristian Camilo Muñoz” – Nairo Quintana pays tribute to former UAE rider after emotional Asturias win following compatriot’s death

Nairo Quintana’s return to winning ways at the Vuelta a Asturias carried far greater meaning than the result alone, as the Colombian dedicated his stage 2 victory to compatriot Cristian Camilo Muñoz following the tragic news of his death earlier in the day.

“This stage is dedicated to Camilo,” Quintana said after the finish in Pola de Lena, paying tribute to the former UAE Team Emirates rider who died six days after a crash at the Tour du Jura.

The Movistar Team rider had just produced a decisive performance on the road, attacking on the final climb to secure a solo victory, but the mood around the race remained subdued in the wake of the news that had shaken the peloton.

“It is very sad. I felt cold this morning. A young boy who had so much to give to the country, with his whole life ahead of him. Sad and unfortunate. My condolences to his family and to his team,” he added.

Earlier in the day, the 140km stage from Llanes had been raced at a relentless pace, with early breakaway attempts repeatedly shut down as the peloton held firm ahead of the decisive climbing sequence.

The race came to life on the Alto de la Colladiella, where Adrià Pericas launched a sharp attack that only Quintana could follow. The pair moved clear before being joined by a select group including Diego Pescador, Txomin Juaristi and Samuel Fernández, forming the day’s decisive move.

As the race continued over the Alto de Cueña, the group was reduced further, leaving Quintana and Pericas alone at the front. The stage win would be decided between the two on the final ascent of the Alto de Carabanzo.

With around 7 kilometres remaining, Quintana made his move. A sudden acceleration distanced Pericas, who was unable to respond after the sustained effort across the previous climbs.

From there, Quintana controlled both the summit and the descent into Pola de Lena, holding his advantage to the line to secure a clear solo victory, with Pericas finishing second and Pescador leading the chasers home behind.

Despite the emotional weight of the day, Quintana also made clear that his ambitions in the race remain unchanged. “I hadn’t won for many years. To be able to win today is an immense joy,” he said. “I came to win the Vuelta a Asturias. It has been a phenomenal stage. I am still learning a lot and I continue with a lot of motivation. Being around the young riders fills me with motivation.”

Reflecting on his battle for the stage victory, he added: “Adrià Pericas did not make it easy for me. He has great potential and he is strong. I relied on my experience and things worked out.”

On a day defined by both sporting achievement and profound loss, Quintana’s victory stood as both a statement on the road and a tribute off it.