Tadej Pogačar delivered a stunning performance on stage four of the Vuelta a España, attacking with nearly 50km still to race before powering alone to victory in Andorra la Vella.
The Slovenian, who is chasing his first Vuelta title to complete a career Grand Tour sweep, made his decisive move on the second major climb. His acceleration quickly turned a competitive battle among the leading riders into a solo show.
Pogačar reached the final climb with a lead of 3min 12sec and comfortably maintained his advantage through the last mountain pass. He crossed the finish line in 2hr 40min 35sec, with Jarno Widar taking second at 2min 39sec and Felix Gall finishing third.
The victory further justified Pogačar’s status as the race favourite, coming shortly after he secured his fifth Tour de France title. The UAE Team Emirates rider now holds a 3min 21sec advantage over compatriot Primož Roglič in the general classification, while Enric Mas sits another 11 seconds behind.
Pogačar had initially taken a conservative approach, remaining behind the main leaders during the opening climb. After the early breakaway riders were caught on the descent from Port d’Envalira, however, the race changed dramatically.
With around 50km remaining, Pogačar launched his attack on the climb and immediately began distancing the other overall contenders. By the summit of Collada de Beixalis, he had built a 1min 30sec advantage over a group containing Mas, Roglič, Gall, Richard Carapaz and Oscar Onley.
His advantage continued to increase as the remaining climbs took their toll on the chasing riders. With Embret Svestad-Bardseng helping to drive the pursuit, Pogačar nevertheless extended his lead to almost three minutes.
After the finish, Pogačar admitted that the victory gave him greater confidence for the days ahead. He explained that he did not want to become isolated among the other GC contenders, knowing they could work together against him, so he attacked on the climb and hoped he could hold the advantage all the way to the finish.
The result marks another remarkable long-range victory for Pogačar, adding to his growing collection of solo Grand Tour performances and putting him firmly in control of the Vuelta.
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