Stage 4: Betanzos › San Andrés de Teixido – 163.5km
On the heels of Stage 3’s explosive finish comes another day with a punchy finale. The first 150km will be relatively calm, but the day ends with an intriguing Cat. 2 climb that will likely bring the GC men to the fore again.
It’s a three-part ascent to the line. Technically, the “climb” is 11.2km at 4.8%, but in reality there’s a steep stretch to start, leading to a quick descent, and then about 4km at around 7%.
Given the parcours, I see many of the same favorites from Monday as favorites again Tuesday.
Alejandro Valverde has the perfect skillset for Stage 4, and he proved in Stage 3 that he’s got the form. This is another great opportunity for him to take a victory. Nairo Quintana and Rubén Fernandez could be in the mix too, of course, but I’d imagine Movistar will ride for Valverde.
Chris Froome was right alongside Valverde Monday and he should be there again here—however the finish isn’t as steep, so it may come down to a reduced sprint, which doesn’t favor Froome as much.
Gianluca Brambilla probably wouldn’t mind a reduced sprint. He’s got a nice kick, and has shown form. This is a great chance for him to nab a second Grand Tour stage win this year.
Esteban Chaves has the right combination of explosiveness and climbing legs to get involved. So too do Luis León Sánchez, Fabio Felline, Philippe Gilbert, and José Goncalvez.
Alberto Contador deserves a mention too. He’d need to attack to win the stage, but he could be motivated to get aggressive after a lackluster showing in Stage 3.
VeloHuman Stage 4 Favorites
1. Alejandro Valverde | 2. Gianluca Brambilla | 3. Esteban Chaves