In 2008, the city of Toledo became fully involved with cycling and with the Vuelta. The good memories of last year’s experience will be re-lived this year, although the course will be different. On this occasion, Toledo will host both the start and the finish of the Vuelta´s penultimate stage. Instead of 2008’s bunch sprint, however, the riders will face a 28 kilometre individual time trial.
The route of this stage, which takes place on Saturday 19th September and includes a significant short climb, is basically flat and is suitable for specialists. Taking place just 24 hours before the end of the race, the Toledo time-trial will be the last opportunity for the main riders to secure a place on the final podium and may even play a decisive role in defining the overall winner.
Previous editions: Toledo has hosted half a dozen stage starts and finishes. More specifically, the city has seen five starts and six finishes, in addition to the 2009 stage. The most recent of these, which has already been mentioned, took place in 2008, with victory going to Paolo Bettini.
