Ayuso praises Roglic for sportsmanship, three riders of Visma | Lease a Bike in first group

Juan Ayuso from UAE Emirates-XRG won Wednesday's most challenging stage of the Tour of Catalonia. The Spanish rider held off Primoz Roglic (Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe) after a sprint on La Molina, where the peloton concluded a 218-kilometer stage with 5000 meters of climbing. Sepp Kuss (Visma | Lease a Bike) also made a strong impression.

Ayuso was, of course, more than satisfied with his victory. "I managed to defeat a great competitor," he said, referring to Roglic. The Slovenian put in a strong push in the final meters, but Ayuso held him off and claimed victory in the queen stage.

"It was a tricky final because you had to be at the front for that last turn. I wasn't there, but Primoz showed he is a great champion by not closing the door. I have to compliment him on that. I'm glad I could overtake him."

"I had to because the team did a great job," said Ayuso. "I want to dedicate this victory to my aunt, who passed away last week. In the last kilometer, all I could think about was her."

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Visma | Lease a Bike with three men in first group

Kuss attacked on the final climb and was caught in the last 500 meters. "I feel good after the stage. I had good legs on the final climb. That's why I wanted to give it a go. We were in a good position, but unfortunately, we couldn't hold off the peloton. Nevertheless, I'm leaving the stage with a good feeling."

Simon Yates and Wilco Kelderman were also able to maintain a front position. "I was in a good position on several occasions. So what we showed today was certainly not bad. We didn't make the podium, but I think we showed our best side. It's only my second race of the year, so I think I can certainly do a lot better," said the British rider.

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