Spain's Urko Berrade Triumphs in Vuelta a Espana Stage 18

Spain's Urko Berrade won the 18th stage of the Vuelta a Espana with a late breakaway in the Basque hills. Australian Ben O'Connor kept the red leader's jersey. Switzerland's Mauro Schmid finished second, and Spaniard Pau Miquel Delgado came third.

Spain's Urko Berrade clinched victory in the 18th stage of the Vuelta a Espana on Thursday, breaking away late in the Basque hills.

In the challenging northern Spanish terrain, a group of 13 riders remained together until the final, serious ascent before the last 40 kilometers to the finish line near Maeztu. The leading pack held until Berrade made his decisive move with less than 5 kilometers remaining.

Swiss rider Mauro Schmid took second place while Spain's Pau Miquel Delgado finished third. Australian Ben O'Connor maintained his overall lead, staying five seconds ahead of Slovenian Primoz Roglic, as both crossed the finish line among the front runners.

(With inputs from agencies.)