5) WEDNESDAY 26 AUGUST: Rota - Alcalá de Guadaira

05
Distance: 182km
Category: Flat
Highest point: 70m

On paper, this is the most straightforward stage of the race with barely a pimple hindering the riders’ progress as they head inland into the province of Sevilla. However, the elements could make for an uncomfortable day. In this parched landscape, the heat is likely to be intense. The riders will also be watchful for echelons forming if the wind begins to gust. This threat is greatest in the first half of Although essentially a flat stage, the sprinters’ teams won’t be keen on chasing down any breaks due to the two climbs on the finishing circuit in Vejer de la Frontera. Running steeply up to the old town, the two ascents will, however, prove tempting for any puncheurs using the Vuelta as a build-up for the World Championships in Richmond. The 1,500m run up to the finish rises through the narrow streets of this classic Andalucian the stage, which runs near the sea, but remains in the open countryside of the latter half. The finale is in the impressively imposing walled town of Alcalá de Guadáira, which is hosting its first finish. The sprinters should provide an equally impressive flourish.

José Luis Arrieta
Like all these stages down in Andalucía, the heat could be a significant factor. If the heat is turned right up, what appear to be straightforward stages can become much more complicated. This one does look like it will certainly end in a sprint, though.