Vuelta weighs neutralising Granada finale

The Vuelta's final stage could be modified after most teams called for the neutralisation of the Granada circuit, citing safety concerns. The riders' union is seeking a compromise that would protect the general classification without removing the stage's sporting contest entirely.

Sunday's 21st stage covers 112 kilometres and consists of four 13-kilometre laps, including a climb that exceeds gradients of 10% in places. Under the proposal being discussed, general-classification times would be settled with slightly more than 10 kilometres still to race, while the final lap would remain open to riders pursuing the stage victory.

The request has not been accepted by the UCI or Unipublic, the Vuelta organiser, which have considered full neutralisation disproportionate. The CPA is mediating between the teams, race authorities and organiser. A decision is expected after Saturday's 20th stage, which finishes at the summit of Collado del Aguacil.

Granada is replacing Madrid as the host of the finale because the capital cannot stage the event while the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix is taking place nearby. Madrid's last Vuelta finale was cancelled a year ago after serious disturbances. The debate also follows the Tour de France's decision to stop counting general-classification time before its final Montmartre circuits, a measure linked to safety on narrow roads.