Vuelta - Stage 16: Bryan Coquard claims another podium

The third and final week of La Vuelta began this Tuesday with a 186-kilometre stage between Cortegana and La Rábida. The first 110 kilometres were particularly hilly, with more than 2,000 metres of elevation gain, and saw five riders go clear. Behind them, Team Cofidis actively contributed to the chase to set up a sprint finish.

With the breakaway caught inside the final 25 kilometres, Bryan Coquard’s teammates continued their work to put him in the best possible position. Alexis Renard notably guided him through the final kilometre. Well positioned on Matthew Brennan’s wheel, Bryan launched his sprint and claimed 2nd place, only beaten by the British rider.

After his victory on Stage 8 and his 2nd place on Stage 11, Bryan Coquard has now claimed his third podium of the 2026 Vuelta.

Bryan Coquard:

“I couldn’t have done much more. I felt quite uncomfortable on the cobbles in the finishing straight: at 58 kg, I felt like I was bouncing around! I stayed on Brennan’s wheel, and it was a long battle to remain well positioned. Alexis Renard nearly crashed, but he managed to come back and we found ourselves in a good position. I was planning to launch my sprint before Brennan, but the pace was really high with Van Aert up front. In the end, I finished second. Brennan is very strong, even on the climbs. 

Gorka Gerrikagoitia, Sports Director: 

“It was a difficult stage, especially the first 110 kilometres, with more than 2,000 metres of elevation gain. A five-rider breakaway formed and we contributed to the chase, with a great effort from the whole team. In the final 25 kilometres, there was a crash as we passed through a town, but we managed to put Bryan in a good position for the sprint. He finished second. Matthew Brennan was simply stronger today in this fast, flat sprint. Tomorrow will be another opportunity for the sprinters, but the race could be more nervous because of the wind. We’ll try to win.”