Santiago Buitrago came within one second of victory on Stage 14 of La Vuelta a España, taking second place at the summit of Sierra de La Pandera after another strong team performance.
Buitrago and Pello Bilbao made the day’s large breakaway on the 154.5-kilometre stage from Jaén. Bilbao worked throughout the day for his teammate before Buitrago joined the fight for victory on the steepest section of the final climb.
The Colombian made his first move with around four kilometres remaining and attacked again inside the final kilometre. He led into the last 300 metres, but Marco Brenner (Tudor Pro Cycling Team) came past in the closing corners to win by one second. Cristian Rodríguez (XDS Astana Team) completed the podium, 11 seconds behind.
Buitrago said: “It was another hard stage here at La Vuelta, and once again the team was incredible. Pello was like a guardian angel throughout the day, and I think he gave even more than anyone could ask of him. I would have especially loved to win for him because he helped me so much.
The final climb had several flatter sections, so I tried to make the difference on the steepest part, but it wasn’t possible. I didn’t want to leave everything to the sprint, so I decided to anticipate in the final metres, but I was beaten at the end. I think I have good legs, and I hope to recover well ahead of next week.”
Buitrago also retains the lead in the mountains classification.
Sports Director Franco Pellizotti added: “In the end, we have to be happy because second place is always a strong result. But today was not only about Santi finishing second. Jakob also had another good day, and once again the whole team performed really well.
Santi fought until the end for the victory. I’m a little disappointed for him because I know how important this win would have been. Every day he tries to make the breakaway, score points for the mountains jersey and fight for a stage victory. We still have another week ahead of us with some important stages. The key is to stay focused until the end, and I believe Santi will have another opportunity to win a stage.”
