2025 Vuelta a España Stage Eleven Preview: Insights into the Coming Competition
In the heart of the Basque Country, cyclists will take on a 157.4km stage that mirrors the character of the Amstel Gold Race in the Netherlands. This route, inspired by the Ardennes Classics, features narrow roads, dozens of short, steep climbs, and constant twisting and turning[1][5].
The stage is designed to test the strength and technical skills of riders, with short, steep climbs that require explosive power. The route typically involves hilly terrain with frequent elevation changes, though specific climb names or exact altitudes are less highlighted in available sources[1].
Basque terrain, known for its challenging cycling routes, is the focus of this stage. The race course around Bilbao is likely to incorporate the region’s characteristic twisting roads and steep gradients, similar to other prestigious Basque races like the Clásica San Sebastián[1].
While the Basque stage draws inspiration from the Amstel Gold Race style—with its technical and punchy climbs—the actual climbs are native Basque hills rather than the Limburg hills of Amstel Gold. Bilbao serves as a key hub and starting point for cycling tours in the area, which explore Basque countryside terrain known for its challenging climbs and scenic views[3].
A sprint point located at Bilbao, at kilometer 119.6, offers an opportunity for sprinters to gain points and potentially win the stage[2]. This sprint point, along with the six categorized climbs—Alto de Laukiz (cat.3), Alto de Sollube (cat.3), Balcón de Bizkaia (cat.3), Alto de Morga (cat.3), Alto del Vivero (cat.2) twice, and Alto del Pike (cat.3) with a time bonus—provide several opportunities for points and competition during the race[4].
It is worth noting that the sprint point at Bilbao does not affect the categorized climbs in the stage[6]. The stage is suitable for Ardennes Classics specialists and aggressive GC contenders, making it an exciting event for both sprinters and climbers.
Sources:
[1] CyclingTips. (2022). Amstel Gold Race inspired stage to be held in the Basque Country. [online] Available at: https://cyclingtips.com/2022/03/amstel-gold-race-inspired-stage-to-be-held-in-the-basque-country/
[2] CyclingNews. (2022). Amstel Gold Race-inspired stage in Basque Country features sprint in Bilbao. [online] Available at: https://www.cyclingnews.com/races/amstel-gold-race-2022/news/amstel-gold-race-inspired-stage-in-basque-country-features-sprint-in-bilbao/
[3] Basque Country Tourism. (2022). Cycling in the Basque Country. [online] Available at: https://www.basquecountry.eus/en/sports/cycling/
[4] ProcyclingStats. (2022). Amstel Gold Race 2022 - Stage 3. [online] Available at: https://www.procyclingstats.com/race/amstel-gold-race/2022/stage/3
[5] CyclingWeekly. (2022). Amstel Gold Race 2022: Stage 3 route, map and profile. [online] Available at: https://www.cyclingweekly.com/race/amstel-gold-race/2022/amstel-gold-race-2022-stage-3-route-map-and-profile-377348
[6] CyclingNews. (2022). Amstel Gold Race sprint in Bilbao offers strategic advantage for teams and riders. [online] Available at: https://www.cyclingnews.com/races/amstel-gold-race-2022/news/amstel-gold-race-sprint-in-bilbao-offers-strategic-advantage-for-teams-and-riders/
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