2024 Vuelta a Espana Stage 6 | Highlights
Report
Ben O’Connor delivered a remarkable performance on August 22, 2024, winning the stage and taking the overall lead at La Vuelta. The Australian cyclist felt a sense of destiny throughout the day, seizing the opportunity to dominate and secure the red leader’s jersey.
Reflecting on his victory, O’Connor said, “I felt like I was all alone in the world today. When the first group left, I was a bit disappointed not to be there, but when the race started again, I slipped into the breakaway. I felt it was a day full of great opportunities, and I had the feeling all along that I could win the stage. Wearing this red jersey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m going to savor every moment.”
Stéphane Goubert, praising the team’s effort, said, “It’s been a great stage and a great team. Ben was untouchable today. He managed to get into the breakaway just when the peloton needed a breather, which enabled them to get ahead. He joins a very select group of stage winners in the three Grand Tours. On top of that, he takes the leader’s jersey, which is a reward for the whole team.”
The team’s collective effort was evident as they took the lead in the overall team ranking. Clément Berthet finished fourth in the stage, moving up to eleventh overall, while Felix Gall remains in the top 10, in ninth place.
O’Connor’s victory at the summit of the Alto de las Abejas marks his third stage win in a Grand Tour, following successes in the Giro d’Italia in 2020 and the Tour de France in 2021. This achievement places him among the elite group of triple stage winners in the three Grand Tours.
The team also celebrated a successful day at the Tour du Poitou-Charentes, with Larry Warbasse taking fifth place in the time trial and overall, and Arthur Blaise finishing sixth.
O’Connor’s triumph is a testament to his resilience and determination, marking a significant milestone in his career and for his team.
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