Wout van Aert secures points lead in Vuelta time trial

Wout van Aert secured a fifth-place finish in the Vuelta a España time trial, a result that mathematically ensures he remains a contender for the green points jersey. While he expressed disappointment at not securing a stage victory during the time trial, the result provides a significant boost to his standing in the points classification.

Van Aert has decided to shift his focus away from the mountains classification, stating that winning the polka dot jersey is no longer a realistic goal given the strength of leader Santiago Buitrago on difficult climbs. Instead, the Belgian veteran intends to prioritize Sunday's stage, aiming for a potential victory alongside riders such as Sepp Kuss.