Itzulia Basque Country stage 4 LIVE - Seven climbs await riders on tough day in the hills

Itzulia Basque Country Stage 4 presented a formidable challenge today, featuring seven classified climbs and 3,137 metres of elevation packed into a demanding route around Galdakao. The stage was anticipated to be a pivotal moment for general classification contenders, with its relentless up-and-down profile testing both endurance and tactical acumen, ultimately shaping the overall standings as the race heads into its decisive final days.

This stage's difficulty is particularly significant given the recent history of Itzulia, often a brutal proving ground for Grand Tour hopefuls and a race where even minor lapses are severely punished. The cumulative fatigue from previous stages, combined with today's relentless climbing, means that any rider hoping for a top-tier GC finish must not only possess exceptional form but also a robust support team to navigate the technical descents and punchy ascents that define this iconic race.

Ultimately, today's parcours was less about individual brilliance and more about a war of attrition, separating the truly resilient from those merely hanging on. As ever, Itzulia delivers on its promise of unforgiving, compelling racing.