Vingegaard Takes Race Lead on Puerto Limonte Mountain

Jonas Vingegaard of Team Visma triumphed in a thrilling stage two of the Vuelta a España, conquering a challenging 10km climb up Puerto Limonte Mountain to claim both the stage win and the coveted red jersey as overall race leader. The cool, rainy conditions set the stage for a fierce battle, with Italy’s Giulio Ciccone of Lidl-Trek finishing a close second.

In a gripping finish, Britain’s Tom Pidcock launched an early attack, but Vingegaard and Ciccone surged past him in the final 100 meters, igniting a white-knuckle sprint to the finish line. Vingegaard’s victory marks his first stage win since February, propelling him to the top of the 21-day race standings by a narrow four-second margin over Ciccone. French rider David Gaudu (Groupama), Egan Bernal (Ineos), and Pidcock round out the top five.

The stage featured a daunting climb with an average gradient of over 5%, shrouded in thick fog at the summit. Despite a slip early on the ascent that left him with bruises, Vingegaard demonstrated resilience and strategic prowess. “Super happy with how I felt and how the team did today, also having the red jersey,” Vingegaard stated. Reflecting on the decisive moment, he added, “I just went in his wheel and, to be honest, before the corner I didn’t think it would be possible to pass him.”

The challenging weather and slippery road conditions tested the riders' skill and endurance, but Vingegaard’s performance underscored his readiness to lead Team Visma toward overall victory. Overnight leader Jasper Philipsen struggled in the finale, unable to maintain pace, highlighting the competitive intensity of this early stage.

VIDEO: 2025 La Vuelta Stage 2 Highlights

2025 La Vuelta Stage 2 Top 10

1   Vingegaard Jonas Team Visma | Lease a Bike 180 03:47:14
2   Ciccone Giulio Lidl-Trek 130 + 00
3   Gaudu David Groupama-FDJ 95 + 00
4   Bernal Egan INEOS Grenadiers 80 + 00
5   Almeida João UAE Team Emirates-XRG 60 + 02
6   Gall Felix Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale Team 45 + 02
7   Hindley Jai Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe 40 + 02
8   Ayuso Juan UAE Team Emirates-XRG 35 + 02
9   Jorgenson Matteo Team Visma | Lease a Bike 30 + 02
10   Pidcock Tom Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team 25 + 02