Rodríguez admits Vuelta struggles after mountain time loss

Carlos Rodríguez reflected on his difficult start to the Vuelta, acknowledging his body feels like it has a "limiter" during crucial moments. The Spanish cyclist lost 22 minutes in the mountain stages of Andorra after performing strongly in the opening time trial, finishing within 30 seconds of race winner Pogacar. esporist.org

Despite two crashes during stage 8 to Xeraco, Rodríguez remained in the race. "Son riesgos del pelotón, gajes del oficio que uno nunca sabe cuándo van a producirse," he said of the incidents. The 25-year-old hopes to improve his condition as the Vuelta progresses and contribute more to his team.