Mads Pedersen (TSF) won Stage 19 in a reduced bunch sprint to score a hat trick at La Vuelta 2022. 

Stage 19 speaks to the variety of terrain and course design at La Vuelta. The course is a shorter, faster race circuit that guided the riders over the Puerto del Pielago two times. Whether or not the riders did their recon, they knew exactly what to expect by the second lap. 

A breakaway made the attempt to free itself from the peloton throughout the day, but there was too much downhill and flats leading toward the finish to beat the bunch back.

The fastest sprint teams pulled to the front to pedal a red hot pace, setting up the reduced bunch sprint. It was a perfect course for Mads Petersen, who excels on sprint days when the pack has been worn down by medium mountains.

With the stage win, Mads Pedersen (TSF) has a stranglehold on the green jersey. Richard Carapaz (IGD), following Jay Vine’s premature departure, is in a good spot to retain the polka dot jersey through to Madrid. Remco Evenepoel (QST) sits tight in the red jersey.

American Lawson Craddock (BEX) rode aggressively throughout the day but couldn’t stick in the breakaway. He remains the highest-ranked American in the overall standings.

Notable exits: none as of race start.