{"id":1871875,"date":"2026-04-07T11:52:41","date_gmt":"2026-04-07T08:52:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1871875"},"modified":"2026-04-07T11:52:41","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T08:52:41","slug":"one-of-my-worst-tt-performances-that-i-can-remember-favourite-juan-ayuso-pulls-no-punches-after-itzulia-basque-country-stage-1-time-trial-major-setback","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1871875","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;One of my worst TT performances that I can remember&#8217; &#8211; favourite Juan Ayuso pulls no punches after Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 time trial major setback"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-1024-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nItzulia Basque Country\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;One of my worst TT performances that I can remember&#8217; &#8211; favourite Juan Ayuso pulls no punches after Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 time trial major setback<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nAlasdair Fotheringham <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:52:41Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n7 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Spaniard argues GC battle very tough but not over because of Itzulia&#8217;s innate unpredictability <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"!m-0\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 sm:ml-1.5 font-base text-xs\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-34e06f87-7449-4b5f-a4f6-9b8977dfae61\">24 hours after his stinging defeat in the opening time trial of Itzulia Basque Country, Juan Ayuso (Lidl-Trek) has recognised he faces a major uphill battle in trying to get back on terms with the other favourites.<\/p>\n<p>Ayuso finished a considerable 1:16 down on stage winner Paul Seixas (Decathlon CGA CGM), a significant margin in anyone&#8217;s book, but also well behind other heavy favourites like Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), 28 seconds down on the flying Frenchman.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-34e06f87-7449-4b5f-a4f6-9b8977dfae61-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Even Isaac del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) whose time trials are not his strong point, finished 25 seconds ahead of Ayuso.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I went farming today&#8217; \u2013 Juan Ayuso avoids Paris-Nice stage 2 crashes by riding into field<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">As it happened: Young talent claims first WorldTour win at stage 1 of Itzulia Basque Country<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">A third WorldTour stage race victory in 2026 for Isaac del Toro? Analysing the Itzulia Basque Country contenders<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Interviews with the 2024 Itzulia Basque Country winner after stage 1 were somewhere between thin on the ground and non-existent, but at stage 2&#8217;s start, Ayuso faced the media and explained he had had a complicated build-up to the Itzulia, with another training crash following his crash and abandon when leading Paris-Nice.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I can say it was not a great day, one of the worst TT performances I can remember,&#8221; he told <em>CyclingProNet<\/em> and other media. &#8220;I can compare it to one I had in the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2022, but back then I had COVID-19, and this time I didn&#8217;t so &#8211; no excuses.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Ayuso said that it had been a tough couple of weeks due to his training crash and prior to that the heavy fall and abandon in Paris-Nice, which had meant four days off the bike. Yet as he put it, &#8220;That&#8217;s not an excuse and I hope throughout the week I can get my legs back and something out of the race.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seven seconds ahead of Seixas in the Volta ao Algarve TT, their only head-to-head in 2026 to date against the clock prior to Itzulia, Ayuso went on to win the Portuguese season opener stage race overall. This time round, the GC could be out of reach now, it was suggested.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I think it&#8217;s really hard, seeing the time gaps and how Paul went yesterday [Monday], of course he&#8217;s the clear favourite,&#8221; Ayuso agreed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;But this is a difficult race to control, any day things can change quite fast, everybody will try to attack. We&#8217;re here to keep on trying.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He will defend himself, but as I say, it&#8217;s a really hard course. I think every team will try to move the race, and that suits attacking from distance and having teammates in front. He&#8217;ll be put under pressure this week.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seixas amazing performance on Monday could hardly fail to have an impact on anybody who watched it. But Ayuso pointed out that whilst during the TT there wasn&#8217;t really a competition between the two, given how badly Ayuso had raced, he&#8217;d already seen for himself in earlier events this season the kind of level at which Seixas was capable of performing.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Yesterday I fought against no-one but myself, &#8221; Ayuso said with a wry laugh, &#8220;so yesterday I can&#8217;t say that much.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;But not only in Algarve, also when he raced Strade Bianche, he showed he was the last guy to put up a fight against [winner] Tadej [Poga\u010dar]. That says a lot.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Alasdair Fotheringham<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Alasdair Fotheringham has been reporting on cycling since 1991. He has covered every Tour de France since 1992 bar one, as well as numerous other bike races of all shapes and sizes, ranging from the Olympic Games in 2008 to the now sadly defunct Subida a Urkiola hill climb in Spain. As well as working for <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>, he has also written for <em>The Independent<\/em>,\u00a0 <em>The Guardian<\/em>,\u00a0 <em>ProCycling<\/em>, <em>The Express<\/em> and <em>Reuters<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I went farming today&#8217; \u2013 Juan Ayuso avoids Paris-Nice stage 2 crashes by riding into field<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">As it happened: Young talent claims first WorldTour win at stage 1 of Itzulia Basque Country<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">A third WorldTour stage race victory in 2026 for Isaac del Toro? Analysing the Itzulia Basque Country contenders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Question marks over Juan Ayuso&#8217;s Lidl-Trek transfer answered in style at the Volta ao Algarve<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Itzulia Basque Country: Paul Seixas pours on the power to win individual time trial opener and claim leader&#8217;s jersey<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Volta ao Algarve stage 3 time trial start times \u2013 Can Juan Ayuso defend his overall lead, or will he be challenged?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Racing<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Itzulia Basque Country: Paul Seixas stuns again with victory in the mountains on stage 2 to create huge GC lead<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Paris-Roubaix weather forecast \u2013 Rainfall, wind, and temperature details for this Sunday&#8217;s races<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Pays de la Loire Tour: Ethan Vernon sprints to third victory of the season on stage 1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cat Ferguson&#8217;s Spring Classics column: Tour of Flanders is the toughest, most powerful race on the calendar, and that is felt in every pedal stroke<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Scheldeprijs Men LIVE: Tim Merlier is back but so are his big-name sprint rivals<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Scheldeprijs Women LIVE: Can anyone prevent a bunch sprint, or will the fast women take the honours again?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A mishap leading to a broken frame 100% will put them out of contention\u2019 &#8211; Modern Adventure to ride Paris-Roubaix on Factor&#8217;s amateur-focused race bike<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Driver of Itzulia  Basque Country race doctor&#8217;s car expelled from race for causing Mikel Landa stage 2 crash <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Rules<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Investigation identifies 54 riders as skipping level crossing red signal at Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tyler Stites leads Modern Adventure Pro Cycling on US team&#8217;s season debut on home turf at Redlands Bicycle Classic stage race<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;While I regret his decision, I fully respect his desire for change&#8217; \u2013 Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s trainer to leave Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe after Tour de France <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Brandon McNulty takes stay at UAE Team Emirates-XRG past decade mark with contract extension<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;A mishap leading to a broken frame 100% will put them out of contention\u2019 &#8211; Modern Adventure to ride Paris-Roubaix on Factor&#8217;s amateur-focused race bike<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Itzulia Basque Country stage 3 LIVE: Paul Seixas defends yellow on punchy day in the Basque Country <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Driver of Itzulia  Basque Country race doctor&#8217;s car expelled from race for causing Mikel Landa stage 2 crash <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Investigation identifies 54 riders as skipping level crossing red signal at Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Scheldeprijs Men LIVE: Tim Merlier is back but so are his big-name sprint rivals<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nItzulia Basque Country\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;One of my worst TT performances that I can remember&#8217; &#8211; favourite Juan Ayuso pulls no punches after Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 time trial major setback<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nAlasdair Fotheringham <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:52:41Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n7 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Spaniard argues GC battle very tough but not over because of Itzulia&#8217;s innate unpredictability <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] 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Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-34e06f87-7449-4b5f-a4f6-9b8977dfae61\">24 hours after his stinging defeat in the opening time trial of Itzulia Basque Country, Juan Ayuso (Lidl-Trek) has recognised he faces a major uphill battle in trying to get back on terms with the other favourites.<\/p>\n<p>Ayuso finished a considerable 1:16 down on stage winner Paul Seixas (Decathlon CGA CGM), a significant margin in anyone&#8217;s book, but also well behind other heavy favourites like Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), 28 seconds down on the flying Frenchman.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-34e06f87-7449-4b5f-a4f6-9b8977dfae61-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Even Isaac del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) whose time trials are not his strong point, finished 25 seconds ahead of Ayuso.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I went farming today&#8217; \u2013 Juan Ayuso avoids Paris-Nice stage 2 crashes by riding into field<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">As it happened: Young talent claims first WorldTour win at stage 1 of Itzulia Basque Country<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">A third WorldTour stage race victory in 2026 for Isaac del Toro? Analysing the Itzulia Basque Country contenders<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Interviews with the 2024 Itzulia Basque Country winner after stage 1 were somewhere between thin on the ground and non-existent, but at stage 2&#8217;s start, Ayuso faced the media and explained he had had a complicated build-up to the Itzulia, with another training crash following his crash and abandon when leading Paris-Nice.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I can say it was not a great day, one of the worst TT performances I can remember,&#8221; he told <em>CyclingProNet<\/em> and other media. &#8220;I can compare it to one I had in the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2022, but back then I had COVID-19, and this time I didn&#8217;t so &#8211; no excuses.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Ayuso said that it had been a tough couple of weeks due to his training crash and prior to that the heavy fall and abandon in Paris-Nice, which had meant four days off the bike. Yet as he put it, &#8220;That&#8217;s not an excuse and I hope throughout the week I can get my legs back and something out of the race.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seven seconds ahead of Seixas in the Volta ao Algarve TT, their only head-to-head in 2026 to date against the clock prior to Itzulia, Ayuso went on to win the Portuguese season opener stage race overall. This time round, the GC could be out of reach now, it was suggested.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I think it&#8217;s really hard, seeing the time gaps and how Paul went yesterday [Monday], of course he&#8217;s the clear favourite,&#8221; Ayuso agreed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;But this is a difficult race to control, any day things can change quite fast, everybody will try to attack. We&#8217;re here to keep on trying.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He will defend himself, but as I say, it&#8217;s a really hard course. I think every team will try to move the race, and that suits attacking from distance and having teammates in front. He&#8217;ll be put under pressure this week.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seixas amazing performance on Monday could hardly fail to have an impact on anybody who watched it. But Ayuso pointed out that whilst during the TT there wasn&#8217;t really a competition between the two, given how badly Ayuso had raced, he&#8217;d already seen for himself in earlier events this season the kind of level at which Seixas was capable of performing.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Yesterday I fought against no-one but myself, &#8221; Ayuso said with a wry laugh, &#8220;so yesterday I can&#8217;t say that much.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;But not only in Algarve, also when he raced Strade Bianche, he showed he was the last guy to put up a fight against [winner] Tadej [Poga\u010dar]. That says a lot.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5QLhaPay9asJvmaNsCjFVZ.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Alasdair Fotheringham<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Alasdair Fotheringham has been reporting on cycling since 1991. He has covered every Tour de France since 1992 bar one, as well as numerous other bike races of all shapes and sizes, ranging from the Olympic Games in 2008 to the now sadly defunct Subida a Urkiola hill climb in Spain. As well as working for <em>Cyclingnews<\/em>, he has also written for <em>The Independent<\/em>,\u00a0 <em>The Guardian<\/em>,\u00a0 <em>ProCycling<\/em>, <em>The Express<\/em> and <em>Reuters<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I went farming today&#8217; \u2013 Juan Ayuso avoids Paris-Nice stage 2 crashes by riding into field<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">As it happened: Young talent claims first WorldTour win at stage 1 of Itzulia Basque Country<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">A third WorldTour stage race victory in 2026 for Isaac del Toro? Analysing the Itzulia Basque Country contenders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L3Bh67JBLUSowQZrSSYPqT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Question marks over Juan Ayuso&#8217;s Lidl-Trek transfer answered in style at the Volta ao Algarve<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Yu8FfueLi59MxA2QvpWoS-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Itzulia Basque Country: Paul Seixas pours on the power to win individual time trial opener and claim leader&#8217;s jersey<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GkLbKe59n3YqFGHXF4c2yf-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Volta ao Algarve stage 3 time trial start times \u2013 Can Juan Ayuso defend his overall lead, or will he be challenged?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Racing<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Itzulia Basque Country: Paul Seixas stuns again with victory in the mountains on stage 2 to create huge GC lead<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PACLdHPKo4sTYMb2q7yNZa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Paris-Roubaix weather forecast \u2013 Rainfall, wind, and temperature details for this Sunday&#8217;s races<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YDDVhak6vSjAr7ZQVvLaDK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Pays de la Loire Tour: Ethan Vernon sprints to third victory of the season on stage 1<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/EX4hRi9pXrjGizQoJjHMYc-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cat Ferguson&#8217;s Spring Classics column: Tour of Flanders is the toughest, most powerful race on the calendar, and that is felt in every pedal stroke<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qCk5UQAa7vbUnh3qTS6x3e-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Scheldeprijs Men LIVE: Tim Merlier is back but so are his big-name sprint rivals<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cduvyUwWQQLdN9jjoSSPgJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Scheldeprijs Women LIVE: Can anyone prevent a bunch sprint, or will the fast women take the honours again?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A mishap leading to a broken frame 100% will put them out of contention\u2019 &#8211; Modern Adventure to ride Paris-Roubaix on Factor&#8217;s amateur-focused race bike<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ejdVgqkUjdUbzHYjXbFpyT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Driver of Itzulia  Basque Country race doctor&#8217;s car expelled from race for causing Mikel Landa stage 2 crash <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kqm3xYrUJbpFLx5jWKbsRH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Rules<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Investigation identifies 54 riders as skipping level crossing red signal at Tour of Flanders<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tyler Stites leads Modern Adventure Pro Cycling on US team&#8217;s season debut on home turf at Redlands Bicycle Classic stage race<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;While I regret his decision, I fully respect his desire for change&#8217; \u2013 Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s trainer to leave Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe after Tour de France <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c7iZMA2VQzGXcYXW5LftgZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Brandon McNulty takes stay at UAE Team Emirates-XRG past decade mark with contract extension<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet 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popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/39FojseRRDnrh7DMBHxJm8.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;A mishap leading to a broken frame 100% will put them out of contention\u2019 &#8211; Modern Adventure to ride Paris-Roubaix on Factor&#8217;s amateur-focused race bike<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Itzulia Basque Country stage 3 LIVE: Paul Seixas defends yellow on punchy day in the Basque Country <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Driver of Itzulia  Basque Country race doctor&#8217;s car expelled from race for causing Mikel Landa stage 2 crash <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Investigation identifies 54 riders as skipping level crossing red signal at Tour of Flanders<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Scheldeprijs Men LIVE: Tim Merlier is back but so are his big-name sprint rivals<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRoad\n<\/li>\n<li>\nItzulia Basque Country\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;One of my worst TT performances that I can remember&#8217; &#8211; favourite Juan Ayuso pulls no punches after Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 time trial major setback<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nAlasdair Fotheringham <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:52:41Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n7 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Spaniard argues GC battle very tough but not over because of Itzulia&#8217;s innate unpredictability <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. 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Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-34e06f87-7449-4b5f-a4f6-9b8977dfae61\">24 hours after his stinging defeat in the opening time trial of Itzulia Basque Country, Juan Ayuso (Lidl-Trek) has recognised he faces a major uphill battle in trying to get back on terms with the other favourites.<\/p>\n<p>Ayuso finished a considerable 1:16 down on stage winner Paul Seixas (Decathlon CGA CGM), a significant margin in anyone&#8217;s book, but also well behind other heavy favourites like Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), 28 seconds down on the flying Frenchman.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-34e06f87-7449-4b5f-a4f6-9b8977dfae61-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Even Isaac del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) whose time trials are not his strong point, finished 25 seconds ahead of Ayuso.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/eFhEfcsCGvDMYJECTY4atC-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;I went farming today&#8217; \u2013 Juan Ayuso avoids Paris-Nice stage 2 crashes by riding into field<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qNHzev7FhoZU9K3Qxj8bES-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">As it happened: Young talent claims first WorldTour win at stage 1 of Itzulia Basque Country<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/c4G53gaqNZ5TK58JCwjNv9-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">A third WorldTour stage race victory in 2026 for Isaac del Toro? Analysing the Itzulia Basque Country contenders<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Interviews with the 2024 Itzulia Basque Country winner after stage 1 were somewhere between thin on the ground and non-existent, but at stage 2&#8217;s start, Ayuso faced the media and explained he had had a complicated build-up to the Itzulia, with another training crash following his crash and abandon when leading Paris-Nice.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I can say it was not a great day, one of the worst TT performances I can remember,&#8221; he told <em>CyclingProNet<\/em> and other media. &#8220;I can compare it to one I had in the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2022, but back then I had COVID-19, and this time I didn&#8217;t so &#8211; no excuses.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Ayuso said that it had been a tough couple of weeks due to his training crash and prior to that the heavy fall and abandon in Paris-Nice, which had meant four days off the bike. Yet as he put it, &#8220;That&#8217;s not an excuse and I hope throughout the week I can get my legs back and something out of the race.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seven seconds ahead of Seixas in the Volta ao Algarve TT, their only head-to-head in 2026 to date against the clock prior to Itzulia, Ayuso went on to win the Portuguese season opener stage race overall. This time round, the GC could be out of reach now, it was suggested.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-jpHHcvV8XjNN2EtHrVXy4C slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;I think it&#8217;s really hard, seeing the time gaps and how Paul went yesterday [Monday], of course he&#8217;s the clear favourite,&#8221; Ayuso agreed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;But this is a difficult race to control, any day things can change quite fast, everybody will try to attack. We&#8217;re here to keep on trying.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;He will defend himself, but as I say, it&#8217;s a really hard course. I think every team will try to move the race, and that suits attacking from distance and having teammates in front. He&#8217;ll be put under pressure this week.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seixas amazing performance on Monday could hardly fail to have an impact on anybody who watched it. But Ayuso pointed out that whilst during the TT there wasn&#8217;t really a competition between the two, given how badly Ayuso had raced, he&#8217;d already seen for himself in earlier events this season the kind of level at which Seixas was capable of performing.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">&#8220;Yesterday I fought against no-one but myself, &#8221; Ayuso said with a wry laugh, &#8220;so yesterday I can&#8217;t say that much.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;But not only in Algarve, also when he raced Strade Bianche, he showed he was the last guy to put up a fight against [winner] Tadej [Poga\u010dar]. That says a lot.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/one-of-my-worst-tt-performances-that-i-can-remember-favourite-juan-ayuso-pulls-no-punches-after-itzulia-basque-country-stage-1-time-trial-major-setback\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/P6HpqnDF4FNTC6h87P5Ux7-1024-80.jpg&#8221;] Pro Cycling Racing Road Itzulia Basque Country &#8216;One of my worst TT performances that I can remember&#8217; &#8211; favourite Juan Ayuso pulls no punches after Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 time trial major setback News By Alasdair Fotheringham published 7 April 2026 Spaniard argues GC battle very tough but not over because [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-1871875","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1871875","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1871875"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1871875\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1871875"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1871875"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1871875"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}