The Australian Jayco-AIUla rider, after his podium in 2024, confirms himself as one of the favourites for the overall title in the Spanish race.
A year on from his extraordinary feat at the Vuelta a España, where a courageous long-distance breakaway earned him two weeks in the red jersey and a podium finish in Madrid, Ben O'Connor confirms he is back in contention for the general classification.
In the second stage, finishing in Limone Piemonte, the Australian proved to be in excellent form, remaining among the favourites, finishing in 13th place, just 16 seconds behind leader Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike).
The Jayco-AIUla captain explained that, after a performance at the Tour de France compromised by a crash in the first week (later compensated by the victory in the queen stage on the Col de la Loze), he returned with the aim of aiming for the overall title of the Vuelta.
O'Connor said.
"I had a fantastic time at the Vuelta last year and after missing out on the overall win at the Tour, it's time to build on that here."Although there is still a long way to go to Madrid and the main mountain challenges are yet to come, O'Connor made an ideal start with a convincing performance on the second category GPM of Limone Piemonte, which he himself described as
'not the best ending for my characteristics'The Australian identified the second week as potentially decisive for the race:
"The Angliru and Farrapona will be crucial stages. In the end, it all comes down to watts per kilo, so you just have to go as fast as possible."With the experience of 2024, O'Connor faces this Vuelta with greater awareness:
'Now I really know what I can do, so in some ways it's easier.'The final verdict will only come on September 14 in Madrid.
