Spanish cyclist Ivan Romeo has put his stage victory ambitions on hold at the Vuelta a Espana to support Movistar team leader Enric Mas.
The strategic shift came during stage 11 after Belgian rider Cian Uijtdebroeks withdrew from the race, leaving red jersey holder Mas without key assistance in the upcoming mountain stages towards Lorca.
Romeo dropped back from the peloton on the road to Lorca to conserve energy for the critical mountain passes ahead. Mas will rely heavily on Romeo's support during the challenging climbs of Velefique and Calar Alto.
Mountain duties for Mas
Movistar entered the Vuelta a Espana targeting individual stage victories alongside a strong general classification performance from either Mas or Uijtdebroeks. However, the early withdrawal of Uijtdebroeks, following a similar departure by race contender Tadej Pogacar, altered the team's plans.
Mas currently wears the overall leader's red jersey, making his defence the priority for the entire Movistar squad. Romeo explained that the team had spent time at an altitude training camp together, where Mas showed strong recovery and form.
Romeo noted that warm summer weather and the Vuelta route suited Mas well. He added that the team intends to take the race day by day to protect the leader from unnecessary pressure.
Disappointment at the Tour de France
Prior to the Vuelta, Romeo had turned 23 years old while staying at the Movistar team hotel in Monaco. He remarked before the race start that he felt in better shape than ever despite earlier complications in his season.
The Tour de France remained a source of frustration for the young rider. A crash during a breakaway cost him a potential stage win in the previous year's Tour, while illness forced him out of the race this season.
Romeo contracted flu during the Tour de Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, previously known as the Dauphine, which disrupted his preparation. He noted that while missing France was a major setback, strong performances in Poland and early in the year proved his progress.
Reflecting on his absence from the Tour, Romeo said he had unfinished business with the race but emphasised that at 23, he had many years ahead. He added that the Tour should not worry because he would settle scores with the event in future editions.
Romeo explained that the enforced break allowed him to step away from the relentless routine of travel, racing, and training. Spending a few months at home gave him fresh energy and motivation for the final stretch of the season.
Time trial ambitions in Jerez
When Romeo arrived at the Vuelta, his primary focus was securing a stage victory, admitting that he would not leave happy without one. However, an unsatisfactory performance in the opening time trial led him to publicly apologise to supporters.
With Mas now leading the race, Romeo's personal ambitions have been redirected to team duties. Nevertheless, one remaining opportunity for personal success lies ahead in the Jerez time trial, a discipline where Mas is less comfortable and Romeo excels.
For now, Romeo and Movistar remain fully committed to protecting Mas as he defends an unexpected lead in the Spanish Grand Tour.
