Over a tough 230 kilometres, this year's race featured seven categorised climbs with a total of more than 4,000 meters of elevation gain. The terrain of the Basque classic was thus predestined for the somewhat punchier climbers in the peloton. On the ascent of the third-last climb, Vlasov managed to jump into the leading group containing Evenepoel, which quickly gained more than a minute advantage over the main field. Vlasov, Evenepoel and Bilbao took on the final climb over three minutes ahead of the chasing group and it became evident that the winner would come from this leading trio. Shortly before the summit, however, the BORA - hansgrohe rider found himself in difficulties and had to fall back slightly. In the end, Evenepoel took out the win while Vlasov reached the finish line in third place.
Results
01 R. Evenepoel 5:30:59
02 P. Bilbao +0:00
03 A. Vlasov +0:28
From the finish line
“Today was a good result, I didn't race since May, but I'm feeling good and it's great to take a result on the podium. I'd like to continue like this, and the next big goal is of course the Vuelta, so I'm looking forward to that. Thanks to the team for positioning me well today in the key points, it's great to be back racing with them. Now it's full focus ahead!” - Aleksandr Vlasov
"We approached the San Sebastian Classic with some uncertainty because the guys came here either after a long break from racing or, like Bob for example, straight after the Tour. Aleks rode his last race at the Giro, but he felt very good today and the team tried to support him when the race went into the mountains, where Evenepoel finally attacked. Aleks was able to keep up quite well, but unfortunately he couldn't keep up with Evenepoel and Bilbao on the final climb. But as far as I know, his podium finish is the best result we have ever achieved as a team in this race. Of course you always hope to win from a group of three, but this result is still a very good re-entry for Aleks." - Rolf Aldag, Sports Director