The queen stage of this year’s Vuelta takes riders deep into Asturias for a monstrous 203km test that finishes atop the Alto de l’Angliru. This infamous climb returns after a one-year absence and will follow a long day featuring the Alto de la Mozqueta and the Alto del Cordal. It’s the kind of stage that could produce minutes of time loss among the GC contenders, not just seconds. The Angliru’s steepest ramps hit 23.5%, and after more than five hours in the saddle, it’s going to be about more than just legs.
2025 Vuelta a España stage 13 details
Date: Friday 5th September
Distance: 203km
Start location: Cabezón de la Sal
Finish location: Alto de l’Angliru
Start time: 12:30 CEST
Finish time: 17:25 CEST
The day begins in Cantabria and heads west into the highlands of Asturias, with more than 4,000m of climbing on the menu. After a rolling opening phase, the peloton hits the Alto de la Mozqueta – 6.6km at 8.5% – followed by a long valley before tackling the Alto del Cordal. This penultimate climb is short and sharp, with a technical descent that leads straight into the foot of the Angliru.
It’s the final 12.5km that defines the stage. The Angliru begins gradually but ramps up viciously in the final 6km, with the Cueña les Cabres averaging 18% and maxing out at over 23%. It’s the sort of climb where teammates offer limited help and the gaps are dictated by who cracks first. Riders will be praying for dry conditions – the narrow road is treacherous when wet, especially after the descent off the Cordal.
Photo Credit: GettyContenders
This is a GC day in every sense. Jonas Vingegaard is the favourite, and if he has the legs, he’ll want to stamp his authority on this race. He’s already looked the best on the longer climbs and has won on brutal gradients before. This is the kind of finish where he can open up significant time.
Tom Pidcock may find the steepest ramps less to his liking, but if he limits his losses, it would be a good sign for the rest of the race. João Almeida will likely pace his effort and could ride into a top three on the day. Giulio Pellizzari has impressed in this Vuelta and climbs well enough to feature here, while Jai Hindley, Egan Bernal and Felix Gall will be aiming to salvage time or a result after quieter days.
From the break, there are a few options. Santiago Buitrago is one of the best on steep gradients and had reportedly targeted this stage since the route was announced. Jay Vine and Juan Ayuso are also threats, depending on UAE’s approach. Others with outside chances include Lorenzo Fortunato, David Gaudu, Ben O’Connor and Marc Soler.
Prediction
Jonas Vingegaard to win stage 13. The Angliru suits his explosive climbing style, and if he’s on form, he can drop the rest and extend his GC lead.
