Paul Seixas vs. Juan Ayuso in final stage of Volta ao Algarve: who takes the overall win?
Sunday marks the thrilling finale of the Volta ao Algarve. On the Alto da Malhão, leader Juan Ayuso defends a very slim advantage over Paul Seixas. Who will take him down? WielerFlits takes a look ahead!
Route
The final stage of the Volta ao Algarve, as often, climbs to the Alto da Malhão (2.7 kilometers at 8.9%), where we have witnessed some exciting moments in recent years. The climb is tackled twice during the closing stage, as the peloton must also cross the Malhão at 45 kilometers from the finish. However, little action is expected at that point.
The rest of the stage is far less dramatic. Starting in Faro, the riders head north for a long stretch before the route gets interesting around 50 kilometers from the line, as they enter the Serra de Caldeirão, where the race’s decisive moves are expected.
Classifications
Who will win the Volta ao Algarve? Anyone’s guess. It will be either Juan Ayuso or Paul Seixas, but who is currently stronger? That’s hard to tell. On the Alto da Foia, Seixas was the better climber, albeit narrowly, while Ayuso left a great impression in the time trial.
One thing is clear: it will be a three-kilometer war on the steep final climb in the Algarve, with Ayuso on the defensive. If he ends up on the wheel of the slightly more explosive Seixas, it’s all over for the Spaniard.
Favorites
Weather and TV
The weather in the Algarve is lovely. On Sunday, temperatures will again reach around 18 degrees Celsius with plenty of sunshine. The final stage will be broadcast live on HBO Max.
