It seems there’s still plenty of fight left in Juan Ayuso at the Vuelta a España, even with the strong presence of Jumbo-Visma riders. The Spanish cyclist from UAE Team Emirates is currently in fourth place but hasn’t given up on aiming for a better overall classification.
“I have to make some bold decisions, and I will definitely do that,” he stated in an interview with the Spanish website Ciclo21.
Ayuso isn’t willing to settle for his current position, as he mentioned during a digital press conference on the second rest day. “Last year, I already reached the final podium, but now I’m closer (2 minutes 37 seconds) to the leader in the General Classification. I also feel like I’ve taken another step forward this year. That’s also the reason why I have to take some risks.”
“Ayuso is not afraid of failure.
“I just have to take some risks, even if I end up fifth or sixth in this Vuelta. That wouldn’t be the end of the world. I prefer to attack than to stand still. I’ll regret it later. I think I can and will improve.”
The penultimate stage could also see an attack from the Spaniard.
“Of course, that can always be disappointing, but as a rider, you have to believe in it. You have to keep racing with a positive mindset. I will definitely try in the Asturias, where the Vuelta will be decided. And if necessary, I’ll give it all again in the penultimate stage.”
Juan Ayuso on Jumbo-Visma
“I don’t know who is more vulnerable right now, but I can see that Kuss is the strongest at the moment. This will become clear in the coming days. We will try to create a situation where one of the Jumbo-Visma riders has to yield.”