Michael Woods Triumphs in Vuelta a Espana Stage 13

Canadian cyclist Michael Woods claimed victory in the 13th stage of the Vuelta a Espana with a late breakaway in the mountains of Spain. Woods won his fourth Grand Tour stage, breaking free in the final ascent. Switzerland's Mauro Schmid and Spaniard Marc Soler finished second and third respectively.

Canadian cyclist Michael Woods clinched a thundering victory on the 13th stage of the Vuelta a Espana on Friday, mastering a decisive late breakaway in the arduous mountains of northwestern Spain. Woods navigated the challenging route from Lugo to Puerto de Ancares, sealing his fourth Grand Tour stage win and third in La Vuelta.

As the leading group of five riders remained closely knit approaching the final gruelling ascent, Woods made a dramatic move, breaking free 4.5 kilometres from the finish line. Switzerland's Mauro Schmid finished as the runner-up, unable to match Woods's relentless pace in the mountains, while the Spanish crowd enthusiastically cheered Spaniard Marc Soler as he claimed third place.

In a symbolic gesture, the 37-year-old Canadian pointed to the flag on his jersey as he crossed the finish line, celebrating his hard-fought and strategically executed victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)