Vuelta a España 2022 Stage 18 Prediction: Can Rigoberto Uran Continue his Exceptional Form and Consistency?

The second category, Alto de la Desperá (km 109.7), and twin ascents of the Alto de Piornal, arriving from two separate angles, are on the 192 km stage, which is another one for climbers. Both approaches have a first category rating and have an average grade of 5% across 13.5 km. The final two kilometers of the second rise are tougher, setting for a dramatic finish.

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On stage 17, the breakaway won as predicted because of the steep finish's spectacular display within the Monasterio de Tentudia. After outsprinting Quentin Pacher and Jesus Herrada in a punishing uphill sprint that came after the Spaniard's all-out attack, Rigoberto Uran prevailed, controlling his competitors on the last rise. Enric Mas attempted to rest Evenepoel once again in the peloton, but he was unsuccessful as Joo Almeida gained ground on his competitors.

Stage 18 is a particularly challenging day, beginning in Trujillo with the riders traveling north on an uncomplicated, empty route before encountering a variety of ascents in the second half. The day's biggest event will be the GC fight. Remco Evenepoel's ability to maintain his finest legs for another day is the big unknown. He will do well on these hills, but since the gradients aren't very steep and he hasn't been able to follow the best in recent big summit finishes, there's a tiny chance he'll lose time if he doesn't do so. Nevertheless, with the absence of Roglic, his goal is a little simpler today, but Enric Mas is showing excellent form and will be taxing the Belgian.

Since Carlos Rodriguez, Miguel Angel López, and Joo Almeida are currently in the lead, and Juan Ayuso is on the podium, the battles behind him are currently just as exciting. Everyday breakaways may also gain a lot of time; if they are able to make an early move, Thymen Arensman, Rigoberto Uran, and Ben O'Connor can directly challenge for the podium spots.

• Richard Carapaz Wins - Yes for 6
• To Be Higher Miguel Angel Lopez/Carlos Rodriguez - W2 for 2.25
• To Be Higher Thymen Arensman/Rigoberto Urán - W1 for 1.4