Damiano Caruso Claims Solo Victory on Stage 4 at the Vuelta a Burgos
# Damiano Caruso Clinches Solo Victory in Stage 4 of the Vuelta a Burgos
In a thrilling display of determination, Damiano Caruso of Bahrain Victorious surged to victory in Regumiel de la Sierra during the fourth stage of the Vuelta a Burgos. The stage, spanning 162.7 km from Doña Santos, offered a mix of challenges that tested the riders, but Caruso’s aggressive approach paid off in spectacular fashion.
At 37 years old, Caruso showcased his experience and tenacity from the outset, participating in a seven-man breakaway that initially formed after 23 kilometers into the race. The escapees quickly gained a significant advantage over the peloton, holding a lead of around three minutes that proved formidable.
The stage turned crucial on the Alto del Cargadero, where Caruso launched his first attack, momentarily pairing with Ben Zwiehoff from Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe. With 16 kilometers remaining, Caruso escalated his efforts, breaking away decisively and leaving his companions behind. His relentless pace carried him through to the finish line, marking his eighth career victory and his first win in over three years since the Giro di Sicilia in 2022.
Caruso completed the race nearly a minute and a half ahead of Rui Costa (EF Education–EasyPost) and Rui Oliveira (UAE Team Emirates-XRG), who secured second and third places, respectively.
Reflecting on his victory, Caruso expressed gratitude and pride: “It was an unexpected move, dictated more by pride and motivation than by my legs, because I was coming off a difficult day yesterday when I couldn’t perform as I wanted. Today, I wanted to give meaning to all the sacrifices and hard work done, and to keep building towards La Vuelta. The breakaway was hard-fought from the very beginning—nothing was given as a gift—and the group included strong riders. To be able to make the difference like that in the final made me realize that Damiano is still here for himself and for the team. After my fifth place at this year’s Giro d’Italia, this is another satisfaction I can give myself this season.”
Sports Director Neil Stephens commended Caruso’s resilience, viewing the victory as a critical boost as the team prepares for the upcoming Grand Tour: “Today was a true test of resilience and fighting spirit. Damiano passed the test with flying colours. After yesterday’s setback, it was important to send a signal. We needed to understand why he didn’t have good legs on the climbs yesterday, as we came here with GC ambitions with him. Seeing him bounce back like this is excellent for morale, and exactly what he needed. It also makes us more confident ahead of La Vuelta—it’s a confirmation that we are on the right track, and all the hard work done so far can pay off with great results.”
With the Vuelta a Burgos set to conclude with the challenging Queen Stage tomorrow, Bahrain Victorious aims to enhance their overall standing, with Torstein Træen sitting in 11th place, just 57 seconds off the lead. As Caruso proceeds with newfound momentum, all eyes will be on the team as they face the final test of this exciting tour.
