On Wednesday, Matthew Brennan celebrated another victory in the Vuelta a España, marking a significant milestone as he became the first racer since Tadej Pogacar seven years ago to win three stages in his debut Grand Tour. The 21-year-old British cyclist claimed his third win during the 11th stage, which spanned 153.8 kilometers from Cartagena to Lorca, featuring mostly flat terrain.
“We took the lead once again today,” Brennan remarked. “The team pushed hard despite having fatigued legs from yesterday’s ride. We maintained our pace and knew we had the strength to achieve our goals.”
Riding for team Visma-Lease a Bike, Brennan previously secured victories in the second and fifth stages, making him the youngest cyclist with multiple stage wins in the Vuelta since Pogacar’s three triumphs in 2019.
“Winning three stages is a tremendous achievement,” Brennan expressed. “I am surrounded by a team of incredible champions who have finished on the podium in Grand Tours and won prestigious races. Their support for me is a remarkable opportunity, and I am truly grateful for their commitment.”
It has been six years since a sprinter claimed at least three victories in their first Grand Tour, with the last being Fernando Gaviria at the Giro d’Italia in 2017. Pogacar had also won three stages earlier in this year’s Vuelta before a crash forced him to withdraw on Saturday while he was leading overall. The accident resulted in a fractured left collarbone, ending his pursuit of achieving victory in all three Grand Tours.
Enric Mas from Movistar Team took over the overall lead from Pogacar and has maintained it since, currently holding a 1-minute and 18-second advantage over Primoz Roglic of team Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe, who is aiming for a record fifth title at the Vuelta.
As the competition continues, Thursday will feature the challenging 12th stage, with a demanding mountain route in southern Spain that includes a traditional double ascent at Velefique and Calar Alto, crucial for riders contending for the general classification.
The three-week Vuelta will conclude in Granada on September 13.
In other cycling news, Britain’s Lewis Askey secured victory in the opening stage of the Tour of Britain, showcasing his skills on the cobblestones of the Michaelgate climb in Lincoln. He finished ahead of Italy’s Filippo Ganna from Netcompany Ineos, who crossed the line two seconds later, followed by Belgium’s Tim Wellens from UAE Team Emirates-XRG in third place.
“It feels incredible, especially with my grandparents present at the finish line. It was a very special moment,” Askey shared. “I race my bike to win. While finishing second or third can be satisfying, nothing compares to the feeling of raising my arms in victory.”
