Louis Meintjes outclasses his breakaway companions on the fierce 24% gradients on the uphill climb to win Stage 9 of La Vuelta 2022. The win breaks a cold streak on the world tour stretching back to 2015 for the South African. 

In what is fast becoming the dominant pattern of this year’s race, red jersey man Remco Evenepoel (QST) puts in a pace that makes it impossible for his GC rivals to pull back time. In fact, the Belgian rider takes more time on the big names like Enric Mas (MOV) and Primoz Roglic (JV), who stand in second and third place overall, respectively.

Stage 9 is the type of monstrous mountain stage that you throw at riders right before a rest day. The Asturian route takes advantage of the lush green valleys and mountains, pushing the peloton up and down a series of category-1, -2, and -3 climbs. The uphill finish at Les Praeres introduced the riders to crushing gradients, enabling the top contenders to pull away from the pack.

Mads Pedersen (Trek-Segafredo) has been knocking on the door in the green jersey competition for multiple stages. On Stage 9 he finally squeaks through with a 5-point advantage on previous green jersey wearer Sam Bennett (BOH).

After raking in the KOM points on Stage 8, Jay Vine had no trouble holding onto the polka dot jersey through Stage 9.

American Lawson Craddock (BEX) at 59th overall becomes the highest-ranked of his countrymen after the unlucky exit of Sepp Kuss (JV).

Notable exits: American Sepp Kuss did not start due to fever. Teammate Primoz Roglic’s path to a fourth win at Le Vuelta just got harder.