Vuelta a Espana 2022 – Stage 21

The final stage in Madrid.

The circuit

They do it quite a few times this year, 9 laps in total. There is a small uphill drag to the line, but nothing the sprinters will be worried about.

Weather

Very hot, and a breeze from the south. A tailwind sprint.

Contenders

Merlier – I am still going to call him the quickest here. It is a very flat stage, which is good for him. He has Vermeerch and Taminiaux at his disposal. It is almost odd he has not won a stage yet, but he has had some bad luck.

Groves – his team is filled with big engines that can keep him near the front on the circuit. He is probably the second fastest after Merlier but he is a bit inconsistent. The smaller peloton should be an advantage for him and his team, I think they will be the strongest team tomorrow.

Ackermann – looking strong at the moment. He has Molano to guide him in the closing meters and that will be a big help.

Pedersen – He clearly has diamonds in those legs, but a flat boulevard sprint is not his cup of tea.

Van Poppel – A solid top 10.

Wright – a solid top 10.

Teunissen – a solid top 10.

Stars

⭐⭐⭐ Groves

⭐⭐Merlier, Pedersen

⭐ Van Poppel, Wright, Teunissen

Who will take the stage win?

I will take a win for Groves in Madrid.