{"id":117399,"date":"2026-04-07T16:13:25","date_gmt":"2026-04-07T16:13:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/04\/07\/as-it-happened-victory-sealed-by-early-attack-on-selective-stage-2-of-itzulia-basque-country\/"},"modified":"2026-04-07T16:13:25","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T16:13:25","slug":"as-it-happened-victory-sealed-by-early-attack-on-selective-stage-2-of-itzulia-basque-country","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/2026\/04\/07\/as-it-happened-victory-sealed-by-early-attack-on-selective-stage-2-of-itzulia-basque-country\/","title":{"rendered":"As it happened: Victory sealed by early attack on selective stage 2 of Itzulia Basque Country"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\">\n<p>Refresh <i class=\"fa fa-refresh\"\/><\/p>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T16:13:25+00:00\">2026-04-07T16:13:25.580Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e65c021e-9e36-4760-9e86-ba1617e51901\">Thanks for joining us today! This Itzulia Basque Country is threatening to turn into the Paul Seixas show, but tomorrow might see him hold back and go into defensive mode on what is a relatively easier day.<\/p>\n<p>That could bring the punchy sprinters into contention for the stage win, but there\u2019s also a chance for the breakaway to succeed. It\u2019s a well-balanced stage, which looks set to be an exciting one &#8211; see you again tomorrow, when we\u2019ll again be providing you live coverage start to finish.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T16:08:53+00:00\">2026-04-07T16:08:53.884Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-be692ffa-e24a-47a7-95fb-696c211608fd\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pCe2s5nyqc285c3ZW5Dmh4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pCe2s5nyqc285c3ZW5Dmh4-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pCe2s5nyqc285c3ZW5Dmh4-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pCe2s5nyqc285c3ZW5Dmh4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pCe2s5nyqc285c3ZW5Dmh4-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pCe2s5nyqc285c3ZW5Dmh4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T16:07:10+00:00\">2026-04-07T16:07:10.405Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c6575778-07ba-4edc-80d1-4aeaec9e8a5f\">Relive the action today with our report of how the stage went down.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/itzulia-basque-country-paul-seixas-stuns-again-with-victory-in-the-mountains-on-stage-2-to-create-huge-gc-lead\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/itzulia-basque-country-paul-seixas-stuns-again-with-victory-in-the-mountains-on-stage-2-to-create-huge-gc-lead\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Itzulia Basque Country: Paul Seixas stuns again with victory in the mountains on stage 2 to create huge GC lead<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T16:04:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T16:04:19.836Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-da40527d-eaff-4ce2-86dd-81538a53cfb1\">Seixas is looking sublime, but he\u2019s helped by the fact that the men expected to be his main rivals are lacking the best form. Del Toro is now 2:44 down in eighth overall, while Juan Ayuso has shipped a whole 3:55 in 16th.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T16:03:06+00:00\">2026-04-07T16:03:06.592Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-1f3e4acb-217b-4ae4-9729-8aec14c9c368\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:58.30%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7.jpg\" alt=\"Current overall ranking leader Team Decathlon CMA CGM&amp;#039;s French rider Paul Seixas celebrates winning the second stage of the Basque Country&amp;#039;s Itzulia cycling tour, a 164.1 km race between Pamplona and Mendukilo cave, near Astitz, on April 7, 2026. (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA \/ AFP)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RPsHxUgDgRr7cZ7W3nY9z7.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:57:11+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:57:11.862Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5c9171d6-2aba-4c86-97c8-8cb8ce9ef52a\">Mikel Landa has just reached the finish. It looked like he might abandon after his heavy fall on the descent, but he managed to pick himself up and reach the finish. Chapeau.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:56:20+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:56:20.297Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c7aad434-f2c6-42f7-ad5c-344d726ec005\">Behind Seixas, it\u2019s all change in the GC. Vauquelin and Gro\u00dfschartner tumble out of contention, while Rogli\u010d, Lipowitz, Skjelmose and Tulett climb up to second, third, fourth and fifth respectively. Every other rider is over 2:30 adrift of the yellow jersey.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:54:12+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:54:12.955Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-54468d9b-c7af-4c00-94be-fcf34bd3c984\">The result means that Seixas has a huge lead already on GC, just one second shy of Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d in second.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:53:25+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:53:25.276Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-78967bfc-05b2-46d0-b988-93f1c767f0d6\">Seixas then spent the rest of the stage soloing to victory<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-4c44353f-0a4d-4486-9521-73e9cc1625e1\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey competes in the breakaway while fans cheer during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GB2qmfcDt29nQpYMvYomve.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:52:01+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:52:01.144Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-00c3945c-d433-4845-ad8f-41e062148eaf\">This was the moment on the climb when Seixas first broke away from the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-02f3f4c8-160c-41cc-96f3-c1599c6107cd\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:65.53%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey attacks in the breakaway during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/rG9FQnM82nUq4FtPTzwLyZ.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:49:43+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:49:43.023Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-03416f4d-babd-44f1-9ca6-5d95c4e96943\">So that\u2019s two days and two wins for Paul Seixas at the Itzulia Basque Country. Right now he looks at an entire different level than the rest of the field &#8211; which is quite something to say of a nineteen-year-old.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:43:59+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:43:59.505Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-279c924f-bbd4-4c86-b9bd-68da4ce33fbc\">Del Toro was missing from that main chase group that reached the line together, failing to keep up with the pace as they sprinted to the top.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:43:26+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:43:26.656Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-16142050-7523-494d-a585-03bedb348ec4\">Rogli\u010d took third in the sprint.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:42:11+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:42:11.988Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-31e57a03-7081-43e5-978f-7b84f08f4fa7\">Skjelmose wins the sprint for second, in a group of seven that reached the top together.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:41:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:41:44.397Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-93e88bf3-cc5e-4cc4-aefa-1343ebb2b4ba\">The third group has joined the second, and it looks like it&#8217;s ging to be a big sprint for second-place.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:41:06+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:41:06.411Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-paul-seixas-wins\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-paul-seixas-wins\"><span>PAUL SEIXAS WINS<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-30debc45-d483-48dd-99c1-09a534677dc7\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The yellow jersey takes the win, fighting for every second all the way up to the line.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:40:25+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:40:25.698Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2ee940d1-5d52-4fe7-9d09-1c71c714aa97\">But the stage win will be Seixas&#8217;, who is nearing the finish now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:40:04+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:40:04.266Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b9177983-a17c-4db5-b3cb-5f18aed19bd9\">Uijtdebroeks is attacking in an attempt to go clear from the second group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:39:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:39:44.630Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cc816daa-803b-44d0-8516-6a95312de172\">The second group is 10 seconds ahead of the third group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:39:24+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:39:24.438Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8112cb36-5da8-494b-a393-ba7ed781204b\">Seixas is being cheered up the final steep kilometres by the Basque fans on the roadside.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:38:55+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:38:55.137Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3e523d9a-8472-4312-9038-07191be83543\">Astana have three riders in the third group, Champoussin, Higuita and Tejada, along with Roglic, Del Toro and Tulett. They&#8217;re trying to bring back the second group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:38:05+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:38:05.821Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-1km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-1km-to-go\"><span>1KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-5119678f-27b4-4207-8624-0f41be48c2d7\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">1:25 is Seixas lead as he goes under the flamme rouge.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:37:11+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:37:11.023Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e9ffd99f-d95c-4a9e-9fed-ec8402be389b\">The Del Toro \/ Rogli\u010d group has the main chase group in sight now. Could they come back together?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:36:29+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:36:29.475Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4c77f5c5-016c-4799-8a29-f9c0392fbdad\">2km to go for Seixas, his lead up to 1:20. The stage victory is surely his.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:35:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:35:19.694Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d83c1807-092f-4db5-bd98-25d832b7775c\">Lipowitz is working at the front again as the chase begin the climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:34:51+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:34:51.142Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5ca48844-3ef9-4186-9fa5-0b4f0a73268c\">Seixas had to move around a spectator who was on the road as he started the climb. It was unclear what had happened to him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:33:37+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:33:37.580Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-dbf6e5e8-213e-408b-9baa-f3a5a89318d0\">Seixas swings onto the final 4km uphill to the finish, his lead at 1:15.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:32:36+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:32:36.067Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a2a646d4-ebc9-4093-a178-308c2414ad59\">5km to go for Seixas, and his lead is up some more, to 1:10.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:31:51+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:31:51.408Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d29ed3fe-a901-436d-afa4-56ed0f34c5a4\">One rider missing from this chase group is the man who was second overall, Vauquelin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:31:11+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:31:11.790Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-587fb732-7d39-4755-9b8a-adc8d4c612b6\">Skjelmose is taking turns at the front, but Lipowitz sat at the back. He must be citing Rogli\u010d&#8217;s presence in the group behind as reason for not cooperating.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:30:24+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:30:24.976Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-96b5f3e9-08dc-48be-a435-73be3bb06803\">If the chase group aren&#8217;t careful, they could be seeing their chances for overall victory disappearing out of reach ahead of them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:29:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:29:19.338Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-955c263f-ef35-4b82-95ae-1e31f1066a17\">Lipowitz and Skjelmose are playing mind games, dropping right to the back of the group and even letting a small gap open up between themselves and the other three.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:28:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:28:44.348Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b8470952-6ff6-473e-ad8a-a6c4dfbc0bef\">Still the five chasers are looking at each other, rather than committing to the chase.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:27:20+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:27:20.215Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-10km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-10km-to-go\"><span>10KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-aa3f4eb7-cbdb-4aca-94cc-9f988c0a7103\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Seixas leads the five chasers by one minute, as he enters the final 10km.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:26:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:26:44.310Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-14352a3a-7885-4083-9b32-051b38c4990c\">Landa has crashed on the descent, and it looks like a heavy one.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:26:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:26:19.646Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-4f558336-1145-450d-a2df-714d3ceabf6f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey attacks in the breakaway during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r7CYthPvftFzEkJHPfN2B7.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:23:56+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:23:56.920Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a05e5112-c932-4607-b67b-0e32ce386e27\">Juan Ayuso is much further behind, in a group two minutes behind the leader.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:22:48+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:22:48.077Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-3aae9b79-e82b-4937-bd23-700affc9518e\">The five riders behind aren&#8217;t working well together.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:22:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:22:19.034Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-36938c71-f3c5-403e-98e3-4b9b13277b0e\">The descent is more shallow than the ascent up, and isn&#8217;t especially technical.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:21:55+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:21:55.257Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-662b768c-d972-4f9e-97b0-51114e213e68\">15km to go, Seixas is retaining his lead of 50 seconds on the descent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:21:07+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:21:07.172Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6032bd6b-4725-46e1-9767-96d674e455d4\">Lipowitz, Uijtdebroeks, Baudin, Skjelmose and Izagirre crested the climb a little ahead of the other chasers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:19:15+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:19:15.036Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5269a729-1739-4127-914e-9a6ce1778e6f\">Behind, Lipowitz is caught by the chase group just as he summit the climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:18:49+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:18:49.981Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-san-miguel-de-aralar\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-san-miguel-de-aralar\"><span>KOM &#8211; SAN MIGUEL DE ARALAR <\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-2c3f982b-4880-4144-a552-47f4cd402348\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Paul Seixas reaches the top of the climb, his lead still 50 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:16:34+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:16:34.120Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-20km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-20km-to-go\"><span>20KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-b0128a83-7fd6-41ee-abe2-22b976059b6c\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Lipowitz still has 50 seconds to make up if he&#8217;s to catch Seixas, though. They will have to be gained on the descent, as they&#8217;re about to summit the climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:15:40+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:15:40.355Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-32b25e83-1110-482e-8d56-629043b78cc8\">Attack from Lipowitz, and this time he&#8217;s gone clear!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:14:56+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:14:56.939Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b1787a38-9634-4840-816a-241df7d4eaee\">Now Izagirre aand Roglic join them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:14:42+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:14:42.860Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-01344c59-7ef0-41b4-b74f-2010e2109b4d\">As has Uijtdebroeks.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:14:30+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:14:30.446Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-34d62819-b969-4baf-b6df-9a0a6b0c6a58\">Lipowitz has clawed up to his wheel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:14:06+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:14:06.294Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6838864d-ea05-4dbb-8fd1-83edb8f72bca\">Del Toro ups the pace on a steeper section, and has a small gap.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:13:47+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:13:47.639Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b0b96596-cc07-47c3-bec9-de70d87b0126\">1.5km from the top for Seixas, his lead at 45 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:13:28+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:13:28.412Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b05a52b2-a3f4-4753-b8d9-379703857b1f\">Tejada has joined the chasers from behind, and Landa is nearing them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:13:10+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:13:10.521Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5fa17e39-b880-4158-8804-9ef18a7624d3\">Lipowitz led for a little while, but now Del Toro takes over again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:12:09+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:12:09.467Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-99a5847b-ac01-4cb1-8a3c-407a623566a6\">Cohesion has broken down though, as the Red Bull riders try attacking.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:11:37+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:11:37.139Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-83b9ec91-685c-4db6-afc7-e33babf3a6c0\">Del Toro is leading the chase group, and is keeping the gap at 45 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:09:39+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:09:39.193Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5d482d06-48ec-4e02-af4d-2c0f3ab3ce6a\">Seixas is riding away from them all though &#8211; he&#8217;s grown his lead to 45 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:09:20+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:09:20.474Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-41c8d8fa-20e6-4ee8-839f-fddad6e3d230\">There are nine riders in the chase &#8211; Rogli\u010d, Lipowitz, Del Toro, Tulett, Baudin, Skjelmose, Uijtdebroeks, Izagirre and Champoussin<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:07:36+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:07:36.000Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1d7a9538-b0c9-4574-82c8-7b82b00e2184\">They&#8217;ve been joined by more riders, including Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:06:10+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:06:10.282Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-172d2f3f-196c-49d8-ae93-e3ba3a015d68\">Del Toro ups the pace in the chase, taking Tulett, Lipowitz, Uijtdebroeks and Izagirre with him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:05:22+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:05:22.363Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-85c8b8c8-1283-4b74-9f41-8cf2799136be\">Lipowitz has been caught by that chase group, which is 20 seconds behind now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:04:57+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:04:57.239Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2996f93f-2e4e-4980-95ae-cf4bdcc4f8e1\">Included in that group of 12 are Del Toro, Tulett, Skjelmose, Uijtdebroeks, and those who were in the day&#8217;s break still.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:04:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:04:14.659Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-88e657cb-a7d9-4fa8-9177-941ce6907238\">The peloton behind Lipowitz only has about 12 riders left in it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:03:34+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:03:34.204Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-792ad55c-aa28-44a0-9fc5-a63274f5d1a5\">Lipowitz has set off in pursuit of the yellow jersey by himself, but is 15 seconds adrift already.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:03:07+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:03:07.078Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-57465f3d-dd25-48ee-a633-39e27c9f9f41\">Back in the chase group, Ayuso is struggling, and has been droped out of it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:02:42+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:02:42.880Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b3cacb96-6f17-415b-938c-f8f39cd41541\">Bou tried to hang on to his wheel, but Seixas is now clear by himself.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:01:48+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:01:48.996Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-445ded42-ed8a-40ce-b6a5-a877e1a66868\">Seixas has caught them, and now leads the race, with 25.5km left to ride.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:01:28+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:01:28.463Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8f528dfc-35de-4b6e-b3c4-a75141d5fed2\">Seixas has caught and passed Van den Broeck, and is bearing down on the rest.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:00:40+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:00:40.927Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a4aa2e80-5982-485e-be02-612c1d04ab4b\">Lipowitz is leading the chase behind, aleady about ten seconds behind.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:00:17+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:00:17.124Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6e97213f-4502-4647-9a3e-cbcc7d9880e8\">Nobody is following him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T15:00:00+00:00\">2026-04-07T15:00:00.627Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-seixas-attacks\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-seixas-attacks\"><span>SEIXAS ATTACKS<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-f8e09456-5144-4938-8338-22c1893e67fd\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The yellow jersey accelerates, staying in his saddle but producing considerable power!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:59:01+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:59:01.288Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d8d2c13b-6ec9-4b15-902a-2d5c7c0b2b9a\">The gradient steepens, and Garc\u00eda Pierna ups the pace in the break.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:57:47+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:57:47.285Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9744dbf5-4ddc-4298-8a9d-d406b0211adb\">Hayter and Van den Broeck have joined the leading duo, but not Armirail.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:57:10+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:57:10.551Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0395631d-b1a8-4e36-9696-b1b701aef014\">Still it&#8217;s Decathlon who lead, and have the peloton all spread out, with some being dropped towards the back, including Alaphilippe.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:56:29+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:56:29.704Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d39e72fc-4f67-41f2-9bb9-a9861721ae60\">Mintegi was dropped out the break, and is taken back by the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:55:52+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:55:52.053Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-10d44318-8812-4cda-9cdc-5d700a141c1d\">Back in the break, Bou and Garc\u00eda Pierna have attacked out from the break.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:55:17+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:55:17.457Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-813d04b5-5dbf-46f6-b7c3-c52f586650ea\">Well, it&#8217;s not exactly a long line &#8211; Paul Seixas has two riders pacing him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:54:24+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:54:24.016Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ff5c5ff2-26f5-4fe4-800d-2a655aba7d1b\">Now Decathlon take over again, with a long line.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:53:25+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:53:25.463Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d53b3500-c2ed-4616-8799-212ea6976739\">Lidl lead the peloton onto the climb, led by Simmons.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:53:10+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:53:10.349Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6798316c-4501-49b2-8b70-ba32384ce4ee\">And now here comes the peloton onto the climb, the pace back up again.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:52:15+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:52:15.870Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-96c21e28-d49c-4eee-89ff-2b6c587ad0fb\">Here we go! The break swings on to the San Miguel de Aralar, and will spend the next 9.4km climbing at 7.8%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:50:53+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:50:53.288Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-30km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-30km-to-go\"><span>30KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-89ed68d5-7029-49db-98de-78251a0c2be2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The pace is off again in the peloton, with the group spread horizontally across the road. That&#8217;s allowed the break to grow their lead again, up to 1:25. Do they still have a chance?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:48:41+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:48:41.689Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c7cebe73-2ca1-47f4-a585-526375c310ad\">The pace is up in the peloton, and the gap is consequently coming down. They now have little more than a minute.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:45:41+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:45:41.255Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-0c25c2b9-3ba4-49f7-a9de-2722ece05868\">Which riders do we need to look out for? The likes of K\u00e9vin Vauquelin, Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d and Florian Lipowitz are the most immediate threats to Paul Seixas on GC, but Isaac del Toro and Juan Ayuso should enjoy such a tough climb too.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:43:58+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:43:58.517Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4d9b2f72-dffd-4463-ba07-61965091fcd4\">We&#8217;re nearing crunch time. They&#8217;ll be climbing in less than 10km, and the race for position in the peloton is on.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:39:20+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:39:20.189Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-7dd451ea-4fb6-4484-aaf3-9c2cee497cd6\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey competes during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r3Wz8zdEegF3iLCeJsTBvS.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:38:36+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:38:36.204Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bf2fd878-cdde-4f6e-b3d2-be9502684faf\">Hayter is talking to his team car, and seems to have some kind of problem with his bike. He&#8217;s riding on for now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:37:08+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:37:08.529Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-40km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-40km-to-go\"><span>40KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-285897ff-e5b8-491b-b6db-cc0406bb8f03\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The break&#8217;s lead over the peloton remains the same, at 1:30.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:36:30+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:36:30.702Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-056952c8-e24b-4aa3-9ee5-4b92eb49226a\">Hayter has taken the seconds, and dropped back into the break.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:35:45+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:35:45.517Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9a201157-98de-41f8-aba3-424b76a6d888\">There are some bonus seconds available, and Hayter has attacked out of the break in pursuit of them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:34:41+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:34:41.611Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2327d10e-eb1c-4832-83bc-9f0c2e30434d\">Axel Laurance was the other Ineos rider to go down in the crash, though he and Hamilton are back in the peloton now.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Today&#8217;s climb will be too hard for him, but he&#8217;s a contender for stage wins on easier days later in the race.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:31:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:31:44.053Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ce1f9340-7ad0-4ce8-826c-f41da990c92d\">The break&#8217;s lead isn&#8217;t getting much bigger. It&#8217;s holding at around 1:30.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:28:27+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:28:27.827Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-691a70e8-bf3c-403d-a3b7-62f97c54000f\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: (L-R) Leo Bisiaux of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM, Victor Langellotti of Monaco and Team INEOS Grenadiers, Roger Adria of Spain and Team Movistar and Adria Pericas of Spain and UAE Team Emirates - XRG lead the peloton during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tjqm23XSDFnPjzxPozssQ3.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:26:56+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:26:56.533Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9678dc73-1c0a-4511-90c2-5a18b527aeef\">There are about 20km until the foot of the final climb. The pace in the peloton is likely to increase the closer they get to it, as the battle for position ignites.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:25:49+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:25:49.083Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-50km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-50km-to-go\"><span>50KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-893a119b-f2cd-473f-bc67-27a53c7e1ec6\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The gap between the peloton and the break has grown, to 1:20. This is a crucial phase of the race for the break&#8217;s chances of survival, as they&#8217;ll need to grow it considerably more on this rolling section before the start of the final climb. The odds are against them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:24:30+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:24:30.430Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b9c4f192-e58e-485c-8f3c-405d2ede9f32\">Ineos&#8217; leader Vauquelin was held up a little, but didn&#8217;t go down, and was unaffected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:23:31+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:23:31.753Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-aac132eb-fdfb-496b-8e4d-4c40a80fa4f9\">It appears that everyone is up and running again. Lucas Hamilton was the worst off, but is also riding his way back to the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:22:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:22:14.592Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-a4b142ca-a983-475e-af50-c9fa7c456563\">Crash in the peloton &#8211; 3 Ineos riders involved, and 2 Tudor riders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:20:25+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:20:25.735Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-08469db7-efed-4262-a11f-4c260b3da615\">The seven riders in the break today.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-1ac13e6e-6be2-4751-98a8-b26d5d9f584c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Ethan Hayter of Great Britain and Team Soudal Quick-Step leads the breakaway during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Dx23ts2yASwYtMf3BNt3Mj.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:17:38+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:17:38.882Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-73d9044c-f0dc-4d63-aa43-5337df3044a6\">The updated KOM rankings, with just one climb left today:<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">1 Bou 12 points<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<p id=\"elk-73d9044c-f0dc-4d63-aa43-5337df3044a6-2\">2 Mintegi 6<\/p>\n<p>3 Seixas 3<\/p>\n<p>4 Armirail 2<\/p>\n<p>5 Fajardo 2<\/p>\n<p>6 Mollema 2<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:15:47+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:15:47.508Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-35da626a-ab7f-4467-9f5e-12006d9436a8\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton competing during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yAcrCyreUTAxdmYuFXY6qD.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:14:12+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:14:12.185Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-22924574-20d4-4821-b839-6fcc6bd56a6c\">Things have calmed down again in the peloton, and Decathlon has resumed control.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:13:37+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:13:37.882Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f4b4c74f-3ce4-4ac3-a720-c30ee15a17bc\">UAE Team Emirates-XRG are the team leading the peloton on the descent. There was news in their camp today, as it was announced that Brandon McNulty has signed a contract extension with the team.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/brandon-mcnulty-takes-stay-at-uae-team-emirates-xrg-past-decade-mark-with-contract-extension\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/brandon-mcnulty-takes-stay-at-uae-team-emirates-xrg-past-decade-mark-with-contract-extension\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Brandon McNulty takes stay at UAE Team Emirates-XRG past decade mark with contract extension<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:11:57+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:11:57.687Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-60km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-60km-to-go\"><span>60KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-813b1ad4-3115-4745-bc57-62cd3363095c\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The peloton hasn&#8217;t let up on the descent, though the gap has increased a little, to 50 seconds. The break will need to push on hard to give themselves a chance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:10:04+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:10:04.576Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-d41d746c-62a7-4e6a-a8a9-a49e448fce9c\">The peloton has also crested the climb, just 45 seconds after the break. The jostling for position by the GC teams increased the pace significantly, reflected by the reduction of the gap.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:08:59+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:08:59.262Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-aldatz\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-aldatz\"><span>KOM &#8211; ALDATZ<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-dda3915c-8f2d-4786-808c-e972f65ab3e1\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Bou again moves to the front to take the maximum points on offer at the top of the climb, this time from Armirail and Garcia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:07:23+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:07:23.665Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-9c511020-2dff-4d22-aa4e-8e8e37f74632\">The GC teams in the peloton are making sure to stay right at the front on this narrow climb. The likes of UAE and Ineos are now riding up there with Decathlon.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:05:52+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:05:52.091Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-fd2d1be9-1d4c-4710-867f-d11df6b245b5\">A nice gesture from Hayter in the break, who hands his bidon to a child watching on the roadside.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:04:40+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:04:40.875Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-009395fd-bbe3-480a-a607-436ce1b17cbf\">The road surface here is also pretty rough, adding to the difficulty, but we&#8217;re still too far out for any of the GC contenders to light things up in the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:03:47+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:03:47.454Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e5e6a07b-e34a-4e4f-8d6c-58a259d3e502\">The road narrows as they swing onto the steep final slopes to the summit of Aldatz. This one&#8217;s a category three, so has less points on offer, but these final gradients are tough.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T14:00:57+00:00\">2026-04-07T14:00:57.434Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-f430e53f-677c-4e6f-8f6c-ee842d686e73\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton competing during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cRokoW6bdgxCUae8tvEGUA.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:57:02+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:57:02.821Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8aa5ab37-987c-4ed4-945a-18f6402df2e3\">Enzo Paleni and R\u00e9my Rochas were the two Groupama riders involved in the crash earlier.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:54:15+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:54:15.799Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-70km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-70km-to-go\"><span>70KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-dfdd34eb-2879-4052-bd94-b0e42b342c04\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The break has reached the bottom of the descent with their lead of 1:20 still intact. But you imagine they&#8217;ll need to grow it to more tha that before the final climb if they&#8217;re to have a chance of competing for the stage win.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:50:18+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:50:18.816Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-fddfa8bd-12bb-4cee-bbf7-69d693e5a845\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Leo Bisiaux of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM with teammates lead the peloton during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yYaoCjCYBomLMdfw77EowZ.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:49:21+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:49:21.598Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-42ecd08e-78e0-4f9e-9459-98df9ad0953b\">The updated KOM rankings, after Bou, Mintegi and Van den Broeck took the points:<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">1 Bou 9 points<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<p id=\"elk-42ecd08e-78e0-4f9e-9459-98df9ad0953b-2\">2 Mintegi 6<\/p>\n<p>3 Seixas 3<\/p>\n<p>4 Farjado 2<\/p>\n<p>5 Mollema 2<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:47:04+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:47:04.720Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-75e9bfdc-cc03-4b4a-9540-75b20d222847\">There\u2019s a crash in the peloton as they near the top. Two riders went down, both of them Groupama riders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:46:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:46:19.888Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-alto-de-zuarrarrate\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-alto-de-zuarrarrate\"><span>KOM &#8211; ALTO DE ZUARRARRATE <\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-1311e12c-fc41-4412-8a89-a4f296ca6c6f\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Bou wants the mountains points again at the top of the climb. He jumps clear to seal them, ahead of the rest of the disinterested group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:43:00+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:43:00.935Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2e0b1f4b-acc4-4774-b840-94a4b15e3bb3\">Fajardo has dropped back into the peloton.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:41:53+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:41:53.266Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-8406158e-41d6-4ccd-8293-63a69e00ae7a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton competing during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MXNVGf2vUZeo4RdJf7adsR.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:39:50+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:39:50.750Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-80km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-80km-to-go\"><span>80KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-f059eab1-fcd6-4ae0-96da-6f15600a872e\">Decathlon\u2019s pace on this climb is bringing the break\u2019s lead down. It\u2019s at 1:20, the lowest it\u2019s been since shortly after it initially formed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:36:30+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:36:30.363Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5645f94e-5991-49cd-9dd2-c714f9df640f\">The break are on the Alto de Zuarrarrate, and Farjado has been dropped.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:35:43+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:35:43.511Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-31a5c3d1-d811-4996-8f8c-5baf108695b3\">Still it&#8217;s Decathlon CMA CGM who lead the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-0f33c806-a20c-419f-9ced-0a4a3c412a8c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y.jpg\" alt=\"CUEVAS DE MENDUKILO, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey, Kevin Vauquelin of France and Team INEOS Grenadiers - Green Points Jersey and a general view of the peloton competing during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km stage from Pamplona-Iruna to Cuevas de Mendukilo 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Cuevas de Mendukilo, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7bozfF6FTBVctAXfo4mD9Y.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:33:13+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:33:13.247Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-80bd08f2-7f7c-41ff-9b3a-e9a184958ebd\">One rider whose performance will be of particular interest today will be Juan Ayuso\u2019s. Was his problems in the time trial yesterday a mere bad day, or does he lack his top form and fitness? The Spaniard has said that he intends to keep fighting for GC, and hopes to improve as the race goes on.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/one-of-my-worst-tt-performances-that-i-can-remember-favourite-juan-ayuso-pulls-no-punches-after-itzulia-basque-country-stage-1-time-trial-major-setback\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/one-of-my-worst-tt-performances-that-i-can-remember-favourite-juan-ayuso-pulls-no-punches-after-itzulia-basque-country-stage-1-time-trial-major-setback\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;One of my worst TT performances that I can remember&#8217; &#8211; favourite Juan Ayuso pulls no punches after Itzulia Basque Country stage 1 time trial major setback<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:26:38+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:26:38.379Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8b2a2b87-6999-4bab-a3a6-bdb6a5ed2b4f\">The upcoming climb is the Alto de Zuarrarrate &#8211; a long one, at 7.3km, but not especially steep, averaging a pretty steady 4.7%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:25:21+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:25:21.940Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-ed65296a-77cf-4d21-8ef4-629b4e37ef4b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB.jpg\" alt=\"LEKUNBERRI, SPAIN - APRIL 07: (L-R) Andrew August of United States and Team INEOS Grenadiers - Blue Best Young Rider Jersey and Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey compete during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Lekunberri, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tAk8yQ8vKydtPuQQV5RZmB.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:24:16+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:24:16.872Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-90km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-90km-to-go\"><span>90KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-a6744588-5d6d-465c-b6dd-36283fb070c0\">The gap&#8217;s grown again, to 1:55. They\u2019re nearing the end of this flat section, and will be climbing again soon.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:22:20+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:22:20.873Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ff3453c8-5088-4c6d-8c5b-bb2d77bb1abf\">Today is one of many that Ra\u00fal Garc\u00eda Pierna has ventured out into the break on already this year, having already done so at Paris-Nice and Volta Comunitat Valenciana, to name a few. He managed to take a stage in the latter, too, and is on paper one of the strongest riders in the group.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:18:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:18:14.337Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e8411044-f7e9-463b-96cd-a03b0e2cb636\">Frank van den Broek is another rider in the break who could be hard to bring back &#8211; as anyone who remembers the opening stage of the 2024 Tour de France will attest to.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/races\/tour-de-france-2024\/stage-1\/results\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/races\/tour-de-france-2024\/stage-1\/results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">That day<\/a> he stayed clear with his teammate Romain Bardet all the way to the finish, defying the odds by holding off a very powerful peloton desperate to have a shot at being the first that year to wear yellow, and sealing the jersey for his French teammate instead.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:13:16+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:13:16.545Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-100km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-100km-to-go\"><span>100KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-4c46878b-5c22-4a07-b1ed-d5e2aab7db18\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The gap&#8217;s come down a little on this (rare) flat section, to about 1:40.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:10:29+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:10:29.800Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4caa91ce-d514-46af-8585-34a2fbf83f23\">Ethan Hayter is another man who, like Armirail, is trying again after delivering a time trial short of his best. His form has been erratic for the past few years, but by getting into the break today he\u2019s shown he has the appetite to ride for a stage win.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:06:03+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:06:03.069Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-110km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-110km-to-go\"><span>110KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-1cc7bac3-207e-4ef3-9ed4-0c4dead640aa\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The gap between the break and the peloton has remained much the same on the descent, at just under two minutes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:05:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:05:14.454Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1c60d3b4-6108-4a05-b60f-0be5e79305ef\">Armirail\u2019s presence in the break also suggests that his Visma-Lease a Bike team are targeting stage wins rather than the GC. Though they have Ben Tulett well-placed in fourteenth on the overall rankings following yesterday\u2019s time trial, they haven\u2019t brought any of their big stage race guns to the Basque Country.<\/p>\n<p>But it\u2019s still a strong line- up, epitomised by Armirail, and will make them dangerous prospects on days like this in the hunt for stage wins.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T13:02:57+00:00\">2026-04-07T13:02:57.379Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ead57d25-bfc5-4b3a-953a-0a1490fbc202\">This is a strong breakaway the peloton has allowed to go clear, with Bruno Armirail in particular standing out.<\/p>\n<p>He\u2019s the current virtual yellow jersey, as the highest man in the group on GC (at 50 seconds). Though not at his best in yesterday\u2019s time trial, he\u2019s a master escape artist, and possesses the kind of unfatigable engine that requires a very big effort to bring him back.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:59:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:59:44.783Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1497b653-05dd-4f33-90e0-bc14efd2a046\">The riders are at last over the climb and now get to enjoy a lengthy descent, before a flat run-in to the next climb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:56:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:56:44.109Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-134c7459-1c39-4e12-b0b1-9da4bc4b1b59\">Even Paul Seixas himself sounded a little taken aback by how good his performance at yesterday\u2019s time trial was. He\u2019s now the frontrunner for overall victory, but doesn\u2019t want to overhype his chances, describing himself merely as \u201cbeing in the running\u201d for the title.<\/p>\n<p><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/i-didnt-expect-to-win-by-such-a-margin-a-time-trial-triumph-for-paul-seixas-as-he-carves-out-first-worldtour-stage-victory-and-claims-leaders-jersey-at-itzulia-basque-country\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/i-didnt-expect-to-win-by-such-a-margin-a-time-trial-triumph-for-paul-seixas-as-he-carves-out-first-worldtour-stage-victory-and-claims-leaders-jersey-at-itzulia-basque-country\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8216;I didn&#8217;t expect to win by such a margin&#8217; \u2013 A time trial triumph for Paul Seixas as he carves out first WorldTour stage victory and claims leader&#8217;s jersey at Itzulia Basque Country<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:51:16+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:51:16.235Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-50e67aed-b570-4294-b4dc-ebc412c489c9\">The gradient kicks up now for the final 4km to the summit, from the false flat they have been riding up to 5%.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:49:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:49:44.983Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-120km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-120km-to-go\"><span>120KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-681cc8d6-0f65-461a-89dd-8a0034bb6171\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">As they continue to climb to the unclassified summit of Puerto de Lizarraga, the gap remains steady, hovering at around two minutes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:45:36+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:45:36.927Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1ead6311-1265-4f0b-97fc-02308c24d8ff\">Decathlon have taken on the responsibility of leading the peloton, for their leader in the yellow jersey. It&#8217;s a rare position the team find themselves in, but one that will likely become more common the longer they retain the services of Paul Seixas.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-c2404113-6cc7-4176-977d-744969e86c7b\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y.jpg\" alt=\"LEKUNBERRI, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton climbing to the Etxauri (412m) during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Lekunberri, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/G7SSsFidaKiCy863mSkc3Y.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:37:55+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:37:55.067Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-99752460-ef2e-44a6-ba2e-5e641546a6ab\">The kind of terrain they\u2019re taking on at the moment is typical of the Basque Country. It\u2019s not a classified climb, but the road has been going up for almost 10km, and will continue doing so, with varying gradients, for about another 10km.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:32:52+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:32:52.002Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-130km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-130km-to-go\"><span>130KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-bcdf378c-9fa7-43c7-8046-8ed2d060ff95\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The gap between the peloton and the breakaway has come down a bit, to 2:15, as they climb an uncategorised rise.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:31:58+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:31:58.269Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-4fa4ff9a-6216-4597-bca2-eee3732b9d30\">Paul Seixas in yellow, safely in the peloton.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-fb8bcf4e-4977-42c4-a883-05cc7530b985\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La.jpg\" alt=\"LEKUNBERRI, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey competes during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Lekunberri, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ektXJbhWacXELLEPNBR2La.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:26:41+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:26:41.298Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-c0576a67-10c3-47c8-b5aa-ee5ab070d224\">Here are the updated virtual KOM rankings. Bou takes over the lead from Seixas, who had led by setting the fastest time at the top of the climb during yesterday&#8217;s time trial:<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">1 Bou 6 points<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<p id=\"elk-c0576a67-10c3-47c8-b5aa-ee5ab070d224-2\">2 Mintegi 4 points<\/p>\n<p>3 Seixas 3 points<\/p>\n<p>4 Fajardo 2 points<\/p>\n<p>5 Mollema 2 points<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:24:16+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:24:16.371Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-8096f980-601e-48f9-b04e-cfa2092a7ef7\">Incidentally, Joan Bou was the first rider to the summit of the Alto de Etxauri, meaning he leads the virtual mountains classification with 6 points. Mintegi took 4 points by being second, and Fajardo 2 points in third.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:18:12+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:18:12.170Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-eeb86eb3-28ce-4efb-b427-332790c153a6\">It\u2019s another warm, sunny day in the Basque Country, with no threat of any rain.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:16:51+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:16:51.821Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-140km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-140km-to-go\"><span>140KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-476a8f82-f786-4177-8e92-f51fd1fe6938\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The breakaway has a healthy lead of 2:35, as they reach the bottom of the descent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:14:48+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:14:48.680Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-8723788a-8df9-4a3f-8ec0-098670a58d7a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:65.53%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH.jpg\" alt=\"LEKUNBERRI, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton climbing to the Etxauri (412m) during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Lekunberri, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7a8zz86k7g4ECmrDHUJwpH.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:10:20+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:10:20.550Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cac4aefc-8f2b-4d75-a5b0-8069d306d618\">At last, Armirail and Garc\u00eda Pierna have made the juncture on the descent. We have a new leading group of seven.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:04:03+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:04:03.696Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-kom-alto-de-etxauri\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-kom-alto-de-etxauri\"><span>KOM &#8211; ALTO DE ETXAURI <\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-e9672d52-f6d7-471b-9d2b-27ec84ef40ba\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The leaders are descending having crested the climb, the two chasers trailing by about 30 seconds, and the peloton by over two and a half minutes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T12:02:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T12:02:14.627Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-c0fcfe20-c66f-4b87-b9c2-2c6087d8ebcd\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV.jpg\" alt=\"LEKUNBERRI, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton climbing to the Etxauri (412m) during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Lekunberri, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UmsT24ptdL3wNKK7BKcABV.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:59:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:59:14.065Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-150km-to-go\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-150km-to-go\"><span>150KM TO GO<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-b9ccbae6-2f22-4249-975f-bf78ba77e5e0\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The two still chasers still have to catch up to the leaders, however. As they near the summit of the climb, they&#8217;re still 45 seconds behind.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:57:44+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:57:44.885Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-ea4d7fa2-3687-42ce-9420-a7271bbb9d20\">The time gap between the peloton and the leaders is now being reported at a much bigger distant, to over two minutes. That suggests the peloton is happy to let both the leaders and the chasers get up the road.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:54:43+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:54:43.850Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-e68f34ec-93e9-41f9-84c2-3807b7a2c950\">As a result, the leading five&#8217;s advantage has been reduced too, down from about 1:30 to 50 seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:54:15+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:54:15.616Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-09870269-3b36-42a9-a559-1bcd8a73e414\">The peloton appear less happy to let this pair go. They&#8217;ve upped the pace and are keeping them at just five seconds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:51:26+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:51:26.005Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-6e5411da-b4a4-48fd-aed1-484383cf8c2d\">This isn\u2019t done yet. Two riders have jumped out of the peloton hoping to catch up to the leaders, and they\u2019re a strong pair &#8211; Bruno Armirail and Ra\u00fal Garc\u00eda Pierna.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:50:21+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:50:21.033Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-45d2368e-480e-42c1-baac-2de4e1a2caba\">The riders making their way through the streets of Pamplona at the start, more famous for bulls roaming through it than hoards of cyclists.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-d16f540b-3bfe-4b41-8d0e-51a0936c8182\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik.jpg\" alt=\"PAMPLONA-IRUNA, SPAIN - APRIL 07: A general view of the peloton passing through the Pamplona-Iruna streets while fans cheer prior to the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Pamplona-Iruna, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YViJbnmzd4RUtKdZKsxxik.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:45:24+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:45:24.114Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-5767e85e-c8be-4017-9ea9-0c8d189c9b04\">Fajardo has made the junction. With the peloton seemingly happy about the personnel in this group, they&#8217;re not having to ride this climb too hard.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:44:00+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:44:00.503Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-45f37a59-5ecb-4ce6-834b-46268eeded85\">The break is growing its lead on the climb, up to 1:20. Fajardo is still chasing behind, with 10 seconds to make up.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:40:42+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:40:42.254Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-cb602881-6bbe-4833-bc1e-864c368224ef\">As they start the climb, the leading four have built a big lead already, of almost a minute. Unless more riders want to use the climb to get into the break, this could be the day\u2019s break formed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:38:12+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:38:12.186Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-7b904174-66c6-4de5-a633-0a1652df0dd8\">Adri\u00e1n Fajardo is chasing that quartet trying to join them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:37:14+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:37:14.337Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-43ab9312-aaa2-43c7-89c3-dce88b85c231\">Four new riders have attacked &#8211; Hayter, Van den Broeck, Mintegi and Bou.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:36:33+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:36:33.027Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-03757fae-7887-4758-bf97-4d8adbb2e8bb\">The stage begins with a few kilometres of flat, but very soon they\u2019ll be climbing, up the category two Alto de Etxauri (6.6km at 6.6%). That will shape the kind of riders who will be able to get into the break today &#8211; put simply, they have to be good at climbing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:34:10+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:34:10.672Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-f4f25a51-1c78-46c0-a6e6-055e4ab95127\">Four riders have attacked already, but all brought back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:33:06+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:33:06.507Z<\/time><br \/>\n<a id=\"elk-official-start\"\/><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-official-start\"><span>OFFICIAL START<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-9162e782-6546-44c8-80f4-59103ef6cf08\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">And they&#8217;re off!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:32:19+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:32:19.876Z<\/time><\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-8249ade5-f7d5-48f5-9efc-72a2df75ef3c\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.70%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL.jpg\" alt=\"PAMPLONA-IRUNA, SPAIN - APRIL 07: (L-R) Andrew August of United States and Team INEOS Grenadiers - Blue Best Young Rider Jersey, Kevin Vauquelin of France and Team INEOS Grenadiers - Green Points Jersey, Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey and Bauke Mollema of Netherlands and Team Lidl - Trek - Polka Dot Mountain Jersey prior to the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Pamplona-Iruna, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZQT4qmqK2GZVWGFKNH2RoL.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:26:23+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:26:23.716Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-51b326fb-1f5d-4528-bf5d-f90288bff0d9\">Paul Seixas in the yellow jersey this morning before the start.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-57ca0c03-9f99-41ff-a5f1-3fc63636c470\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS.jpg\" alt=\"PAMPLONA-IRUNA, SPAIN - APRIL 07: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM - Yellow Leader Jersey prior to the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 2 a 164.1km from Pamplona-Iruna to Lekunberri 757m \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 07, 2026 in Pamplona-Iruna, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E8AwvMmDjkdrVVT7VFnKjS.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:23:04+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:23:04.883Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-66c2738d-a787-428c-805a-698f66df8ca0\">The riders are moving through the neutralised section in Pamplona. Not long before they\u2019ll see the flag.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:18:47+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:18:47.227Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-2272195b-76ec-4ced-9602-e1b93fb28878\">To catch up with everything that happened during yesterday\u2019s stage, have a read of our full race report.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/itzulia-basque-country-paul-seixas-pours-on-the-power-to-win-individual-time-trial-opener-and-claim-leaders-jersey\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/racing\/itzulia-basque-country-paul-seixas-pours-on-the-power-to-win-individual-time-trial-opener-and-claim-leaders-jersey\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Itzulia Basque Country: Paul Seixas pours on the power to win individual time trial opener and claim leader&#8217;s jersey<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:13:30+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:13:30.695Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1888de08-4601-4aff-a923-bb23b087fd40\">There will, therefore, be no time for Paul Seixas to enjoy a simple day on his first day wearing the overall leader\u2019s jersey. As impressive as he was in yesterday\u2019s time trial, this will be a new test for him as he learns more and more about racing at World Tour level.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"\" id=\"elk-421d9310-b7ac-481f-bdac-f7431e19102a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\" style=\"max-width:1024px;\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\" style=\"padding-top:66.60%;\"> <picture data-new-v2-image=\"true\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-1024-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9.jpg\" alt=\"BILBAO, SPAIN - APRIL 06: Paul Seixas of France and Team Decathlon CMA CGM celebrates at podium as Yellow leader jersey winner during the 65th Itzulia Basque Country 2026, Stage 1 a 13.8km individual time trial stage from Bilbao to Bilbao \/ #UCIWT \/ on April 06, 2026 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Tim de Waele\/Getty Images)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-1024-80.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-1024-80.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-970-80.jpg 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-650-80.jpg 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-480-80.jpg 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9-320-80.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" loading=\"lazy\" data-new-v2-image=\"true\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RrSTtZB8A7zGLPx4jcJ8n9.jpg\" class=\"inline\"\/><br \/>\n<\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption itemprop=\"caption description\" class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\" itemprop=\"copyrightHolder\">(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a id=\"elk-seasonal\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<aside id=\"seasonal_0\" class=\"hawk-root\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-skip=\"dealsy\" data-widget-type=\"seasonal\"\/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:06:13+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:06:13.969Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-66b36712-58cf-422c-8905-c10f07b6cbf8\">Averaging 7.8% for 9.4km, the San Miguel de Aralar is certainly hard enough to cause time gaps, even if there is some distance between its summit to the finish at Lekunberri.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T11:04:00+00:00\">2026-04-07T11:04:00.846Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-af8f2d95-7685-4166-81ed-8a58c11570a2\">The final climb will be San Miguel de Aralar, crested just under 20km from the finish. It\u2019s new to Itzulia Basque Country, <a data-analytics-id=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/races\/vuelta-a-espana-2020\/stage-2\/results\/\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"inline-link\" data-before-rewrite-localise=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/races\/vuelta-a-espana-2020\/stage-2\/results\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">but did feature at the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a in 2020<\/a>, when Marc Soler attacked out of a small group of favourites on the descent to solo to victory.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T10:59:13+00:00\">2026-04-07T10:59:13.307Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1d702958-5e0b-47ac-84a4-030004d9ef73\">This second stage of Itzulia Basque Country is no simple transition to ease the riders back into road racing following yesterday\u2019s time trial opener. Instead, this is a tough day in the Basque hills, featuring a category one climb towards the finish that will draw the GC contenders out into a fight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<time class=\"no-wrap live-feed-date\" datetime=\"2026-04-07T10:52:18+00:00\">2026-04-07T10:52:18.685Z<\/time><\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-771e56e2-6480-4930-87ca-a3f5bde56465\">Hello and welcome to stage two of Itzulia Basque Country!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" style=\"--text-on-accent-color: white; --comment-widget-header-bg-color: var(--accent-color); --comment-widget-header-text-color: var(--text-on-accent-color); --comment-widget-header-link-color: var(--text-on-accent-color);\" x-data=\"ViafouraComments('300px')\" x-show=\"$store.Viafoura.showWidgets\" data-nosnippet=\"\" data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=\" vfcustom-community-guidelines=\"\" follow=\"\" our=\"\" href=\"&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot;\" target=\"&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community\" guidelines=\"\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\" x-show=\"showConfirmDisplayNamePrompt\" x-cloak=\"\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<p><button x-on:click=\"$store.ViafouraAuthModal.logout()\" type=\"button\" class=\"block mb-3 w-full justify-center px-3 py-2 text-sm font-semibold text-white shadow-sm button-primary\"><br \/>\nLogout<br \/>\n<\/button>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/live\/itzulia-basque-country-stage-2-live-paul-seixas-defends-yellow-jersey-on-testing-hilly-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Refresh 2026-04-07T16:13:25.580Z Thanks for joining us today! This Itzulia Basque Country is threatening to turn into the Paul Seixas show, but tomorrow might see him hold back and go into defensive mode on what is a relatively easier day. That could bring the punchy sprinters into contention for the stage win, but there\u2019s also a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":117400,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[4],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117399"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=117399"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117399\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/117400"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=117399"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=117399"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/basketball.runfyers.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=117399"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}