In the fourth stage of the 2026 Vuelta a España, Tadej Pogačar delivered a commanding performance in Andorra, setting new climbing records on both the Collada de Beixalis and Coll d’Ordino. His exceptional solo attack not only secured him the stage victory but also extended his overall lead in the general classification.
Stage Overview
The 105-kilometre stage, featuring a formidable 3,024 metres of elevation gain, commenced with the Port d’Envalira before tackling the Collada de Beixalis, Coll d’Ordino, and Alto de la Comella. Pogačar’s decisive move came on the Collada de Beixalis, a 6.5-kilometre climb averaging 8.7%, where he launched an attack approximately 50 kilometres from the finish line. (domestiquecycling.com)
Record-Breaking Climbs
On the Collada de Beixalis, Pogačar completed the ascent in 17 minutes and 34 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 18 minutes and 58 seconds set by Sepp Kuss in 2021. This performance was over a minute and a half faster than the next closest time of 19 minutes and 14 seconds. (wielerflits.nl)
Following this, Pogačar continued his dominance on the Coll d’Ordino, a 9.8-kilometre climb with an average gradient of 7%. He reached the summit in 23 minutes and 22 seconds, setting a new benchmark for this ascent. The previous record was 27 minutes, achieved by a large climbing group in 2018. (wielerflits.nl)
Strategic Attack
Pogačar’s long-range attack was strategically motivated. He expressed a desire to avoid isolation against a group of general classification contenders, prompting his decisive move on the Collada de Beixalis. (domestiquecycling.com)
Stage Victory and General Classification Lead
The Slovenian cyclist’s relentless effort culminated in a solo victory, finishing the stage 2 minutes and 39 seconds ahead of Jarno Widar, who secured second place. This victory marked Pogačar’s fifth stage win at the Vuelta a España, including the opening 9.4-kilometre time trial. (cyclingweekly.com) His commanding performance has solidified his position at the top of the general classification, with an overall lead of 3 minutes and 21 seconds. (cyclingweekly.com)
Conclusion
Tadej Pogačar’s remarkable achievements in Andorra have not only set new climbing records but also demonstrated his strategic acumen and physical prowess. As the Vuelta a España progresses, his dominance continues to pose a significant challenge to his rivals, reinforcing his status as a formidable contender in the world of professional cycling.