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Home News Pogacar Wins Vuelta a Espana Opener, Claims Red Jersey

Pogacar Claims Victory in Vuelta a Espana Opener

Aug 23, 2026
53 min
6
Aug 23, 2026 00:31
Tadej Pogacar wins Vuelta a Espana opener to claim red jersey

## Pogacar Takes Lead in Vuelta a Espana

Tadej Pogacar, riding for UAE Team Emirates, emerged victorious in the opening stage of the Vuelta a Espana, securing the leader's red jersey. The Slovenian cyclist completed the 9.4-kilometer individual time trial in Monaco with a time of 10 minutes and 57 seconds.

## Narrow Win Over Competitors

Pogacar narrowly edged out British cyclist Ethan Hayter, with Joshua Tarling finishing third, four seconds behind the leaders. This victory marks the beginning of Pogacar's quest to achieve a career Grand Tour treble, having already won the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia.

## Historic Achievements in Sight

A win in the Vuelta would make Pogacar the fourth cyclist to achieve a Tour-Vuelta double in the same year. Only eight riders have completed all three Grand Tours in their careers. His compatriot, Primoz Roglic, finished 24th in this stage.

## Upcoming Challenges

The race continues with a challenging 214.3-kilometer stage from Monaco to Manosque, France. Pogacar's performance in this stage sets a strong foundation for his ambitions in the Vuelta.

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