A filthy, wet, windswept day that had the riders desperately trying to get feeling into their numbed fingers. No, not racing in Belgium, but Spain!

Volta a Catalunya Stage 6: Pobla de Segur to Torrefarrera, 117km

Max Schachmann just got the better of long time break away companion Diego Rubio (Burgos BH) to take his first professional win and Quick Step Floors second in 24hours. Both riders deserve praise as they outfoxed the chase and battled over 100km through atrocious conditions in a shortened stage. Sam Bennett (BORA-hansgrohe) took the sprint for third after the chasing group was shattered into pieces in the crosswinds. Alejandro Valverde remained vigilant and retains the lead by 16secs from Bernal with one stage to go.

Video…

Max Schachmann injured his foot after heavy fall in Tour of Poland in 2017. He had words of encouragement for teammate Petr Vakoc fighting his own battle after being hit by a truck while training in South Africa earlier this year.

Diego Rubio had done the majority of the work in the finale as the duo fought to keep their advantage. He crossed the line thumping his bars in frustration – oh so close.

The break were never let off the leash and Mitchelton-Scott put everyone in the gutter when the crosswinds hit. It was the best way to keep warm.

Brrrr…

Full race report at Cycling News

Race Website Race Twitter #VoltaCatalunya

Header image: Max Schachmann and Diego Rubio at the finish