Virus haunts Vuelta peloton: "Performance of several riders affected"

On the morning of stage six, Lotto was the first to report a DNS for the day. The Belgian team, which rode a strong team time trial on Wednesday and finished tenth, unfortunately saw Arjen Livyns drop out. “We regret to announce that Arjen Livyns will not continue in the Vuelta a España,” they said on X.

“After yesterday's team time trial, Arjen fell ill, and his condition did not improve overnight,” the Belgian team continued. “After careful consideration, our medical staff decided to withdraw him from the race for his own health and well-being. We wish Arjen a speedy and full recovery.”

Cofidis then announced the subsequent withdrawal. The French team reported that Simon Carr would not start in the sixth stage to Andorra. “After being ill for several days, Simon Carr will not start in the sixth stage. We wish Simon a speedy recovery,” Cofidis announced via X.

Soudal Quick-Step then had another withdrawal to report. The Belgian team had already lost Valentin Paret-Peintre due to illness, and for the same reason, Pepijn Reinderink is unable to continue. 'We will continue the Vuelta with six riders after Pepijn Reinderink was forced to withdraw due to illness. We wish you a speedy recovery, Pepijn," Soudal Quick-Step announced on X. We had seen the 23-year-old rider from Almelo in the breakaway in the opening stage.

During the stage, Koen Bouwman also abandoned the race on behalf of Jayco AlUla. The Dutchman had been riding at the back for several days. Afterwards, his Australian team announced that the two-time Giro stage winner had been struggling with stomach problems for a few days.

The next day, there were more withdrawals. Cristian Rodriguez (Arkéa - B&B Hotels) gave up after several days of illness, as did Burgos BH sprinter Daniel Cavia. “Several riders have been infected with a virus that is affecting their performance,” the Spanish team announced.