Stage 10 offers a different kind of mountain challenge as the Vuelta resumes in Navarre, with a 175km route that climbs gradually towards the Pyrenees and finishes atop Puerto de Belagua. The climb was last used in 2023, where Remco Evenepoel bounced back from GC disaster with a stunning solo breakaway win – but this time, the approach is softer and the GC shake-up may be limited. After a well-earned rest day in Pamplona, riders will need to gauge their form quickly as they face a steady build-up to the final ascent and a key tactical decision: chase the break or leave it be?
2025 Vuelta a España stage 10 details
Date: Tuesday 2nd September
Distance: 175km
Start location: Arguedas
Finish location: El Ferial Larra Belagua
Start time: 12:55 CEST
Finish time: 17:18 CEST
The stage begins in the dry, open terrain near Sendaviva before heading steadily north into greener and more mountainous landscapes. It’s a route that builds gradually, with only one categorised climb – the Alto de las Coronas – before the long run to the foot of Belagua. The final ascent itself is not especially steep, averaging 6.3% over 9.3km, but could be made more selective if raced hard from the base. Still, history suggests it may not be decisive for the GC, especially given the softer run-in compared to 2023. The most likely outcome is a strong breakaway group contesting the win.
Photo Credit: Cor VosContenders
There are two possible scripts today. If the GC riders fancy their chances, expect Jonas Vingegaard to try something again. He has clearly been the strongest climber in this race so far and could launch a controlled effort if the mood suits. João Almeida has been climbing solidly and may see this as a stage to limit losses rather than attack, while Tom Pidcock could feature again after his punchy performance on stage 9.
Giulio Ciccone, however, is the name that stands out. A pure climber with a strong kick, he has been quietly building form and will see this as an ideal opportunity. If the GC group comes to the line together, he may be the one rider able to go clear late on or win from a reduced sprint.
If a break is allowed the freedom it had on stage 8, riders like Carlos Verona, Julien Bernard, Finn Fisher-Black, Bruno Armirail, Pablo Castrillo, and Lorenzo Fortunato are all prime candidates. Each has the climbing ability to win from a reduced group and the motivation to seize an opportunity before the race hits more decisive terrain later in the week.
Photo Credit: GettyPrediction
Giulio Ciccone to win stage 10. The climb suits his style, the GC riders may hesitate, and if he picks the right moment, he can out-punch the rest on the upper slopes of Belagua.
