Team Visma | Lease a Bike comes through shortened sixteenth stage Vuelta a España safely

# Team Visma | Lease a Bike Safely Navigates Shortened Sixteenth Stage of Vuelta a España

In a challenging turn of events during the sixteenth stage of the Vuelta a España, Team Visma | Lease a Bike CEO Richard Plugge expressed deep concerns over safety measures following the race’s decision to shorten the course. “It is really unfortunate that this decision once again had to be taken to guarantee the riders’ safety,” Plugge stated. “As long as the race organizers and the UCI allow the Vuelta to continue, I assume they can also ensure it is done in complete safety.” He noted that this marks the second time such a decision has had to be made during the race, potentially impacting its outcome. He further appealed to fans, saying, “I would like to once again call on the public not to interfere with our riders and the race,” urging organizers to prioritize security for a thrilling finale.

The day began somberly for Team Visma, as they rolled into the final week without rider Victor Campenaerts, who fell ill before the start. Despite this setback, the team showcased remarkable cohesion as they engaged with a breakaway group early in the stage, led by Wilco Kelderman and Dylan van Baarle. However, the anticipated battle for the stage victory was interrupted by events necessitating a course adjustment.

The new finish line was repositioned, leading Egan Bernal of INEOS Grenadiers to claim the stage victory with a time of 3:35:10. Following him, Jonas Vingegaard crossed the line alongside Sepp Kuss and other general classification contenders. Vingegaard maintained a solid lead of 48 seconds over his nearest rival, João Almeida, despite the stage’s unforeseen changes. “It’s a shame that this has happened again,” Vingegaard lamented. “Everyone has a right to protest…but it’s a shame that it has to happen here and in this way and that we can’t finish the race.”

As anticipation builds for the upcoming stages, the next challenge awaits. Tomorrow’s race will finish uphill at Alto de El Morredero, marking the tenth uphill finish of this year’s Vuelta, promising continued excitement and intensity as the competition unfolds.

### Stage 16 Results:
1. Egan Bernal (INEOS Grenadiers) – 3:35:10
2. Mikel Landa (Soudal Quick-Step) – +00:00:00
3. Brieuc Rolland (Groupama – FDJ) – +00:00:07

### General Classification (Top 3):
1. Jonas Vingegaard (Team Visma | Lease a Bike) – 61:16:35
2. João Almeida (UAE Team Emirates – XRG) – +00:00:48
3. Thomas Pidcock (Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team) – +00:02:38

As the race approaches its climax, the stakes have never been higher, with everything still to play for in this gripping edition of the Vuelta a España.