Stefan Küng scores another top-10
# Stefan Küng Shines in Shortened Time Trial at Vuelta a España
In a pivotal stage of the Vuelta a España, Swiss cyclist Stefan Küng reasserted himself by capturing a respectable sixth place finish in the only individual time trial of the race, held in Valladolid. Competing on a course reduced to just 12 kilometers due to safety concerns, Küng’s performance was instrumental as he aimed to find his best form since the onset of the prestigious event.
“**The route completely changed**,” noted David Han, commenting on the alterations that transformed the originally planned 27-kilometer race into a much shorter challenge. The revised course featured a technical first section in the town, followed by a return trip along a main road, with varying wind conditions that played a crucial role in performance.
Küng’s impressive showing began at the first intermediate checkpoint, where he matched the leader’s time. Showing a fierce competitive spirit, he clocked the best provisional time at the second checkpoint, leading Filippo Ganna by three seconds momentarily. However, as the race unfolded, Küng ultimately finished eleven seconds behind Ganna, who took home the victory.
Reflecting on his performance, Küng stated, “**The Vuelta has been very difficult for me physically.** I had Covid just before the Tour de Pologne, and it slowed down my preparation. Last year, I almost felt like I was flying in the Vuelta. This year, that was definitely not the case. I suffered a lot, but I fight every day because I’m a fighter, I love racing, and I felt like things were getting better in the last few days. I gave my best, a few guys were stronger, and I don’t have any regrets. **It’s still a step forward**.”
Küng’s teammate, Rémi Cavagna, also put forth a commendable effort, finishing in 13th place, just two seconds shy of the top ten. “**I gave it my all today… I really didn’t have a single moment of weakness. I can’t be disappointed. I’m quite satisfied**,” remarked Cavagna after his performance.
Despite the results, David Han expressed a mix of pride and disappointment for the team, noting, “**With one rider in the top five and two in the top ten, it would have been a good time trial, so we’re a bit disappointed.**” He emphasized the high level of competition, particularly as the race enters its challenging final week.
As the Vuelta a España continues, Küng’s strong finish serves not only as a morale booster but also as a promising signal leading into upcoming competitions, including the world and European championships.
