Mas Holds Red Jersey Lead as Vuelta a España Heads for Mountain Showdown
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The 2026 Vuelta a España is racing towards a thrilling finish, with Irishman Eddie Dunbar snatching a surprise win in the tough Stage 19 today. But all eyes remain on Spain's Enric Mas, who bravely defended his overall lead and the coveted Red Jersey against attacks from rival Primož Roglič, setting up a nail-biting weekend. The race is now down to its decisive final mountain stage before Sunday's ceremonial finish. Mas's grip on the race has tightened ever since pre-race favorite Tadej Pogačar dramatically crashed out on Stage 8, blowing the competition wide open. With only 1 minute and 37 seconds separating Mas from four-time Vuelta champion Roglič, every pedal stroke in the remaining stages becomes critical. Felix Gall also sits close in third, making the battle for the top spot an intense fight among the world's best climbers and strategists. Tomorrow, Stage 20 presents a massive challenge: a grueling mountain ride through Spain's Sierra Nevada, ending atop the fearsome Collado del Alguacil with almost 4,900 meters of climbing. This 'monster stage' could change everything before the race concludes with a city circuit in Granada. Fans worldwide can catch the drama live on various platforms, with free options available in countries like Australia on SBS On Demand and Spain on RTVE Play.