Marc Soler Triumphs at Lagos de Covadonga

Marc Soler clinched victory in Stage 16 of the Vuelta a Espana with a decisive breakaway in the final five kilometres, outpacing Filippo Zana and Max Poole. Meanwhile, Belgian rider Wout van Aert withdrew due to a crash, despite leading in key rankings.

Spain's Marc Soler achieved an impressive victory in the ascent to Lagos de Covadonga during Stage 16 of the Vuelta a Espana on Tuesday. Seizing an opportunity in the final five kilometres, Soler surged ahead, creating an unreachable gap and securing first place. Italy's Filippo Zana and Britain's Max Poole completed the podium in second and third place, respectively.

In a dramatic turn, Belgian rider Wout van Aert had to withdraw from the Vuelta after a crash on a descent left him injured. The accident happened with over 50km remaining in the stage. At the time of his withdrawal, the 29-year-old was leading both the points and king of the mountains rankings, making his exit a significant blow to the competition.

(With inputs from agencies.)