A Yates: “It was tough all the way to the end” O’Connor: “I’m proud of the team’s run” – Vuelta a España 2024 stage 9 Cyclowired player comments

“I had nothing to lose, so I gave it my all and went for the win,” said Adam Yates (Emirates Team UK, UAE), who ran the 58km alone. Here are comments from the players after the 9th day of the Vuelta, including O’Connor who defended Mayor Rojo and Kuss who lost time.

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Stage win & 7th overall & Maillot Montagna Adam Yates (UK, Emirates Team UAE)

I have never suffered so much before. It was very hot today. My legs gave out on the last climb and I doubted my victory. I didn’t know if I was going to win because I’ve been very lucky in Grand Tours in recent years. I’m very happy to finally win another Grand Tour stage.

Marc (Soler) and Jay (Vine) led the runaway group and guided me to the best position while maintaining a high speed. In the end, I was alone with Godu, who was suffering from the heat. I was in the same pain, but I thought this was it. From there to the finish line it was very difficult.

To be honest, I didn’t care about the overall ranking, I was only thinking about winning the stage. We had nothing to lose, so we tried our best to win.

It’s nice to be able to wear any special award jersey. There have been a lot of disappointing events in the last few days, so we wanted to win and boost confidence. This mountain championship jersey is a bonus for winning.

The temperature was up to 42 degrees, and although we were covered in water, the heat did not change at all. It was like taking a hot bath. The first week of this competition was a race for survival in 40 degrees. I checked the weather forecast for the area where grades 10 and 11 will be held and was relieved to find that the temperature was around 20 degrees.

3rd place on stage & Mayorrojo Ben O’Connor (Australia, Decathlon AG2R La Mondial)

I am proud of the performance we showed as a team today. We were able to control the time difference with the escape​​​​​​ and implement the strategy. Felix (Gal) also showed great traction in the final climb, making it a satisfying race.

Carapaz’s attack surprised me and it was a good move. The time when he jumped out at a difficult pace (even in a group). Everyone (top racers) had the platform yesterday, so they didn’t push themselves to the limit. You never know what will happen to your body in the heat if you do that.

-What do you think of Roglič’s performance?

The difference in elevation gained today was great, and all the mountains were steeper than 10%. I run under such conditions. It is not surprising that you feel uncomfortable in your body. And he won the stage yesterday. I guess there is no problem.

Stage position Primoš Roglič (Slovakia, Red Bull Bora Hansgrohe)

My legs didn’t feel good today and I also had pain in my lower back. I struggled on the last climb, but tomorrow will be my rest day.

David Godu (France, Groupama FDJ) ran away and finished 9th on the podium.

It’s not 100% yet, something is missing. However, he had the legs to enjoy a stage like today. I don’t think I would have finished in the same group if I had stayed with the main racers in general (not taking advantage of the escape). Not only did he not lose overall time, he was able to steal time from the riders behind the main group.

Sepp Kuss (USA, Visma-Liesabike) lost time after a delay on the final hill.

As expected, it was a very hard day. I started the race doubting my condition and I was able to reduce the damage (loss of time). On the last climb, I had no choice but to go at my own pace and I struggled with the descent and the wind as I prepared.

Today’s race started in very hot conditions, and by the middle of the race, none of the teams could control the pack. That’s why the players who ran away early were smart. It also seems that Carapaz took a risk and it paid off.

Wout van Aert at Maillot puntos (Belgium, Visma-Lies-A-Bijk) rides away

I ran away and joined the group hoping to be able to help Sepp (Kuss) in the last stage. However, I couldn’t fit into the group as much as I expected.

text: Sotaro.Arakawa
photo: CorVos