Vuelta 2026 Favourites stage 11: For fast men #3

fotobureau Cor VosThe stage from Cartagena to Lorca is one of five stages in this year’s Vuelta that is almost certain to end in a bunch sprint. Who will take the spoils? (Slideshow route/profile)

First published on 20 August 2026

In theory, a 9.5-kilometre climb averaging 4.2% is the only obstacle that could derail the sprinters' hopes. But that average gradient already tells you that the Alto de Aledo is hardly an Angliru, and the climb gets steadily gentler as the summit approaches.

Once over the top, there are still 29.5 kilometres to go. Plenty of time, then, to recover from any damage that may have been done. Or will the peloton underestimate the day's breakaway?

Favourites 11th stage 2026 Vuelta a España

*** Matthew Brennan, Mads Pedersen, Kaden Groves
** Wout van Aert, Alberto Dainese, Jordi Meeus
* Magnus Cort, Ethan Hayter, Marc Brustenga, Orluis Aular

Another interesting read: route 11th stage 2026 Vuelta.