Lanterne Rouge Cycling Podcast Vuelta a España 2025 - Stage 20
Sep 13, 2025
The hosts dive into the epic challenges of Stage 20, featuring a stunning mountaintop finish. They analyze the strategic dynamics of climbs and valleys that impact rider fatigue. Tensions rise as protests disrupt the race, affecting strategies and safety. Almeida's unconventional tactics come under the spotlight, revealing how his style influences team dynamics. With thrilling insights into the rivalry between top cyclists and the chaos that ensues, the conversation is both analytical and entertaining, capturing the unpredictable nature of cycling.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Valleys Define The Bola Del Mundo Battle
- Stage 20 combined multiple shorter climbs with long fast valleys, shaping attritional racing rather than a single explosive finale.
- The Bola del Mundo finish is a brutal 3 km at ~12% after valley sections that reward sustained pressure over single accelerations.
Valleys Change Fatigue Dynamics
- Long valleys between climbs let riders recover and change the nature of accumulated fatigue compared with consecutive climbs.
- That alters team tactics: teams must decide whether to add sustained tempo in valleys or save riders for the final ramp.
Use A Satellite Rider To Control Valleys
- Put a strong satellite rider in the break to pace long valleys and maintain pressure before a final climb.
- Use that rider to stop recovery and force rivals to carry fatigue into the decisive climb.