As predicted Tom Dumoulin took over the race lead at the Vuelta after dominating Stage 17’s individual time trial. The Dutch rider started the day
ADVERTISEMENTAs predicted Tom Dumoulin took over the race lead at the Vuelta after dominating Stage 17’s individual time trial.
The Dutch rider started the day in fourth overall at 1 minute and 51 seconds behind overnight leader down on Joaquim Rodríguez.
But he propelled himself to the top of the general classification with a fine ride over the 38.7km course in Burgos.
He set a time of 46 minutes 01 seconds to overhaul the GC favourites.
His closest title rival now is Fabio Aru who had previously donned the leaders red jersey through several stages of this year’s edition.
The Italian made sure the battle for the title remains very much alive following a solid performance.
Aru crossed over in tenth place on the day losing one minute and 53 seconds to Dumoulin.
He trails by just three seconds overall leaving things delicately poised for the three stages that precede the ceremonial finish in Madrid.
Rodríguez meanwhile finished 3 minutes and 06 seconds behind Dumoulin.
The Spaniard slipped down to third overall at one minute and 15 seconds.