2022 Vuelta a Espana Stage 12 | Highlights

Report

Richard Carapaz put in a perfectly timed late attack to secure victory from the breakaway on stage 12 at the Vuelta a Espana.

The Ecuadorian made his way into the day’s break before launching the winning move with two kilometres to go on the steep final climb of Penas Blancas.

Pushing clear to win by nine seconds, Carapaz claimed his first Grand Tour stage for the team, and a first Vuelta stage win for the team since 2017.

The GC contenders arrived almost eight minutes later, with race leader Remco Evenepoel (Quick-Step – AlphaVinyl) coming back from a crash to lead the small group across the finish line.

“I’m very happy,” said Carapaz. “I knew I wasn’t coming with the best condition after crashing at home. When we arrived in Spain after the Netherlands, we hit the mountains and it was a bit complicated for me. I moved on mentally to focus on a stage win. I knew I could do it in La Vuelta. Other years, I came 2nd, 3rd… It’s the first time, so I’m moved.”

“I’m very happy. Mostly because the feelings I hoped for from the start are back. I have to enjoy it. I knew I wasn’t coming with the best condition after crashing at home. When we arrived in Spain after the Netherlands, we hit the mountains and it was a bit complicated for me. I moved on mentally to focus on a stage win. I knew I could do it in La Vuelta. Other years, I came 2nd, 3rd… It’s the first time, so I’m moved. There are still many stages to keep trying. We have to make the most of our current level.”

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