Santiago Buitrago put on an impressive display from the breakaway, finishing second to Lazkano (Movistar) in a sprint to the finish atop Pradoluengo.

Buitrago, who won the opening stage at last year’s edition came into this year looking at getting a podium place in the GC, however after suffering in the extreme heat conditions on stage 3, Buitrago lost time and was able to get into the 9 rider break.

The break were given gap of close to four minutes, and as they got to the foot of the final climb it was down to just two, but it was clear the winner would come from the 9 man group. In the final few kilometres Brambilla (Q36.5) attacked first with Buitrago responding along with Lazkano, who closed down the following attempt of Bou (Euskaltel-Euskadi). In the final run to the finish Buitrago was in a difficult position on the last bend and narrowly missed out on victory.

A frustrated Buitrago commented “I’m disappointed as I really thought I would be able to win today and I got unlucky on the last bend to the line. Congratulations to Lazkano, I think everyone in the break did good work.

After a hard day yesterday, I’m pleased with how I responded and the legs felt good which is important going into the Vuelta.”