A relatively easy day for the team in the Vuelta as a 24-rider breakaway group survived and Nelson Oliveira took the stage win. Tom Dumoulin finished in the bunch and maintained third overall.

The route of 178 km from Calatayud to Tarazona covered hilly roads and three registered climbs. The profile could show possibilities for the attackers.

Lots of the attacks took place early in the stage but none of the riders managed to get away in the first 40km. The attacks continued and 24 riders eventually came together in the front. The bunch initially controlled the gap but towards the finale the breakaway’s chances of survival increased.

The bunch awarded the day success to the escapees and Nelson Oliveira (Lampre – Merida) won the stage after a solo effort of 25km. Tom Dumoulin and the rest of Team Giant-Alpecin finished in the bunch. Dumoulin crossed the line in 41st and his third place in the general classification remained unchanged.

"It took 70 km for the break to go," he said. "It was a very hard fight before that. The best placed riders were like 6 minutes behind in the GC and Astana were forced to chase behind 24 riders. Eventually nothing happened in the GC. Everyone was hoping for an easier day but it didn't happen.

"I feel pretty well. We had two days that were easier for the GC. I didn't have to go full gas in these days. I hope I have saved my legs for the three days ahead.

"Definitely Astana are not going to wait. It's very open still. Lots of guys are close to each other in time. Its' going to be an open race."