Ethan Hayter is expected to rejoin the Vuelta a España, as he aims to regain his top form at the Tour de Pologne, stating he has matters to settle in the former competition.
British Racer Ethan Hayter to Participate in the 2023 Vuelta a España
Ethan Hayter, the British racer currently in his first year at Soudal-QuickStep, is set to participate in his second Grand Tour, the Vuelta a España. The race, scheduled for late August 2023, marks a chance for Hayter to improve on his previous experience there.
In 2022, Hayter had to abandon the Vuelta a España due to contracting COVID-19 right before the individual time trial, which forced an early exit and left "unfinished business" for him in the race [1][3]. His participation in Grand Tours is limited; he only rode one Grand Tour before, with Team Ineos, and the Vuelta this time would be his second attempt [1].
The 2023 season with Soudal Quick-Step has had ups and downs for Hayter. He became the British road race champion in 2024 and won several individual time trials. However, he admitted not feeling fully "sharp" or at his best fitness just before the Tour de Pologne [1][3].
Hayter's chances in the Vuelta hinge on regaining top form, especially after a slow start to the season and lingering effects from illnesses in the previous year. His time trialing ability is a strength, and 2023 saw him place well in time trials, which could be advantageous in the Vuelta [1][3]. He aims to be more competitive overall this time, unlike last year’s forced withdrawal, perhaps targeting both stage results and a better general classification placement [1][3].
Before the Vuelta, Hayter is planning to participate in the National Champion's jersey in Sunday's 12.5-kilometer TT. His preferred distance in time trials is 12.5 kilometers, and he has already claimed the British National TT title for a third time in five years [1].
With a strong focus on the Vuelta, Hayter is determined to perform well and make up for his early exit in 2022. His participation in the race is a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed.
[1] - Source: Cycling News [3] - Source: Cycling Weekly
Ethan Hayter, participating in the 2023 Vuelta a España, aims to improve upon his previous experience and complete the race where he had to abandon due to COVID-19 in 2022. With his time trialing ability as a strength, he intends to be more competitive overall and potentially target both stage results and a better general classification placement.
