After the World Championships, Remco Evenepoel has travelled to Andorra for a short altitude training camp, and he's used it to recon today's mountain stage of the Vuelta a Espana into Andorra.
“From Andorra la Vella after 117 kilometers we ride uphill," Evenepoel said in a long video he's done regarding the first mountain stage of the Vuelta. "I mainly expect a fight to start the descent well positioned, because it is really very technical. You really have to be among the first fifteen riders to comfortably turn up the final climb.”
Whilst the strong wind may prevent offensive racing, he's pointed out a very important moment of the day which will be the start of the descent off the Col d'Ordino, which will be very technical and likely wet - besides cold. The tough weather conditions can make it a very difficult day for the riders, all this before the final ascent to Arinsal.
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The climb will be 8.3 kilometers at 7.6%, but the Belgian champion argues that it will not only be this that will be a factor on the day: “We will also feel the height of about 1900 meters. It will be a very tough ride, I expect. And that after only three days.”
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A founding contributor to CyclingUpToDate since its launch in January 2022, Ruben Silva has played a central role in shaping the site’s editorial direction and long-term growth. Before joining the project, he built his experience through independent blogging at Echelons Hub and by producing race previews for Ciclismo Internacional, developing a strong analytical voice rooted in daily engagement with professional cycling.
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- Yeah, what he said!Lozza15-11-2026
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- let’s be honest, Alpecin is all about one rider - MVDP. I’m sure he gets whatever he needs, the rest get the scraps.mij15-11-2026
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