Vingegaard withstands attacks from rival Almeida on Angliru
# Vingegaard Holds Strong Against Almeida’s Challenge at Angliru
In an intensely competitive Stage 13 of the Vuelta a España, Jonas Vingegaard showed remarkable resilience against João Almeida’s fierce attacks on the daunting slopes of Angliru. Team Visma | Lease a Bike seized control of the stage from the outset, managing a breakaway group but keeping them within striking distance as they approached the Angliru.
American cyclist Sepp Kuss proved to be an invaluable ally for Vingegaard throughout the challenging finale. As Almeida surged ahead, only Vingegaard could respond to the Portuguese rider’s acceleration. Almeida set a punishing pace on the steep inclines, which peaked at a daunting 23 percent gradient, but Vingegaard remained steadfast. Although Almeida ultimately clinched the stage victory, Vingegaard crossed the line in close pursuit.
Reflecting on the day’s events, Vingegaard expressed a mix of emotions, stating, “I have mixed feelings. Of course, I really wanted to win today as well. But to be fair, João was absolutely the deserved winner. This is the Angliru, a mythical climb. The team worked incredibly hard today. I would have loved to reward them with the victory.”
Despite falling short of victory, Vingegaard remains focused on the remaining stages of the Grand Tour. He acknowledged Almeida’s strength, affirming, “João was very strong today. He has once again proven himself to be a serious contender for the overall. Together we managed to put the other rivals at a significant distance. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow, another tough mountain stage. Alongside my team, I’ll give it my all again.”
### Stage 13 Results:
1. **João Almeida (UAE Team Emirates – XRG)** – 04:54:15
2. **Jonas Vingegaard (Team Visma | Lease a Bike)** – +00:00:00
3. **Jai Hindley (Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe)** – +00:00:28
4. **Sepp Kuss (Team Visma | Lease a Bike)** – +00:00:30
### General Classification After Stage 13:
1. **Jonas Vingegaard (Team Visma | Lease a Bike)** – 49:30:54
2. **João Almeida (UAE Team Emirates – XRG)** – +00:00:46
3. **Thomas Pidcock (Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team)** – +00:02:18
10. **Sepp Kuss (Team Visma | Lease a Bike)** – +00:05:26
As the riders prepare for the next grueling challenges ahead, the stakes are higher than ever, and Vingegaard’s determination will be essential as he battles for prominence in this iconic race.
