The anticipation for the 2024 Vuelta a España is building as the event is set to kick off on August 17, 2024, in Lisbon, Portugal. This year’s race promises thrilling competition with a diverse roster of talented cyclists ready to tackle the demanding 21-stage course. It promises to be a thrilling contest, with several riders positioning themselves as strong contenders for the coveted red jersey. With the absence of some major names like Tadej Pogačar, Jonas Vingegaard, and Remco Evenepoel, the stage is set for a new champion to emerge. Let’s take a closer look at 7 Best Players at Vuelta a España 2024 who are expected to battle for the title. Each of these riders has the potential to make a significant impact, promising an exciting and competitive Vuelta this year.

1. Sepp Kuss

Sepp Kuss will be returning to defend his title after his unexpected victory last year. The American rider’s win was a significant achievement, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. This year, Kuss will benefit from his experience, aiming to replicate his success and solidify his position as a leading contender. Kuss’s solid climbing skills and tactical acumen make him a formidable competitor in the mountain stages. His ability to manage his energy over demanding climbs will be critical, especially with challenging finishes such as Picón Blanco and Lagos de Covadonga on the route. He may have to rely on teamwork and strategy to fend off the competition and maintain his lead throughout the three-week race. Due to his great strength and speed he is on our 7 Best Players at Vuelta a España 2024.

2. João Almeida

After spending much of the season supporting Tadej Pogačar, João Almeida will take on the mantle of the main leader for UAE Team Emirates at this year’s Vuelta. Almeida’s strong performances earlier in the year have positioned him as a key player in the competition. Having finished fourth in the Tour de France last month, he enters this race full of confidence. Almeida’s exceptional time-trial skills will be significant advantages, particularly on Stages 1 and 21, where he has the chance to gain valuable seconds. Furthermore, the absence of the top-tier competitors will offer Almeida the opportunity to thrive as the de facto race favourite. With a strong supporting cast that includes Adam Yates and Pavel Sivakov, Almeida’s ambitions for the red jersey will be boosted by the strategic advantage of having a well-rounded team.

3. Primož Roglič

A name synonymous with success in the Vuelta a España, Primož Roglič is one of the most experienced riders in this year’s race. Holding three Vuelta titles to his name (2019-2021), Roglič’s consistency has been impressive. With Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe at his back, he will look to reclaim his place atop the podium. However, Roglič faces a challenging recovery after sustaining injuries from a crash in the recent Tour de France, which left him with broken vertebrae. The key question is whether he can return to form and compete at the highest level once again. Despite this setback, Roglič is known for his resilience and tactical expertise. With the support of strong riders like Sasha Vlasov and Dani Martínez, he will hope to capitalise on opportunities in the mountain stages.

4. Adam Yates

Adam Yates has been developing into a serious contender for Grand Tour victories. After finishing third at the Tour de France last year, he solidified his status as a rider to watch. Yates brings an added layer of depth to UAE Team Emirates’ strategy as they aim for success in the Vuelta. His strengths lie in his ability to handle long climbs and consistent performances in time trials, which will play a significant role in the outcome of this year’s Vuelta. Yates’s experience in working collaboratively with Almeida suggests that they can operate as a cohesive unit. Their mutual support could be key to mitigating competitors’ attacks and reinforcing their team’s overall strategy. His dedication and stamina made his place on our 7 Best Players at Vuelta a España 2024 list.

5. Richard Carapaz

Richard Carapaz is another rider with a proven track record, having been a constant presence on Grand Tour podiums since 2019. After facing challenges at the Tour earlier this year, he signed with EF Education-EasyPost with the intent of putting together a strong performance at the Vuelta. Carapaz has demonstrated the ability to thrive in challenging mountain stages. With a close finish in the 2020 Vuelta where he narrowly lost to Roglič, he remains a determined competitor looking for redemption. His previous experience in breakaways and securing classification jerseys adds an intriguing dynamic to his approach in this year’s race.

6. Carlos Rodríguez

At just 23 years old, Carlos Rodríguez has shown immense promise following his breakthrough performance in the 2022 Vuelta. With Ineos Grenadiers supporting him, Rodríguez seeks to cement his standing as one of the leading young contenders in the cycling world. His strong performances in previous Grand Tours have laid the foundation for potential success this year. Following a less-than-ideal showing at the Tour, Rodríguez’s focus will be on obtaining a solid result within the GC standings at home. Familiarity with the route may provide him with added confidence, and he will aim to secure a top finish while also vying for the white jersey, which is awarded to the best young rider.

7. Enric Mas

Enric Mas has successfully captured podium finishes at the Vuelta three times and will be looking to add another one to his record. Representing Movistar Team, he has built a reputation as a steady competitor, with his racing style accommodating uphill challenges. However, his performances in time trials could prove to be a barrier to achieving better overall results. Having struggled to make significant gains in the Tour de France, Mas will aim for redemption on home soil. His ability to maintain pace on mountain stages will be crucial, as he seeks to return to the podium once again.

Other Riders Who Have Potential To Win

• Sasha Vlasov
• Dani Martínez
• Ben O’Connor
• Antonio Tiberi

Conclusion

The 2024 Vuelta a España is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions in recent memory. With significant competition ahead, the absence of some of the sport’s biggest stars has opened the doors for new challengers to emerge. Riders like Sepp Kuss and João Almeida stand poised to shine, while seasoned competitors such as Primož Roglič and Richard Carapaz are looking to prove their mettle once again. With a blend of youth and experience among the contenders, the Vuelta 2024 will hold great promise for thrilling racing and potential surprises from an array of talented cyclists. The riders are ready to face the challenges that lie ahead, and racing fans are in for an exhilarating three weeks of competition in Spain.