Mixed feelings for Mireia Benito after bold solo move falls short but earns second place on Vuelta a Burgos Féminas stage 3

Mireia Benito delivered a remarkable performance on stage 3 of the Vuelta a Burgos Féminas, launching a daring solo attack with 27 kilometres remaining. The Spanish rider from AG Insurance-Soudal maintained her lead for over 20 kilometres, only to be caught with six kilometres to go by Mischa Bredewold of SD Worx-Protime, who ultimately outsprinted Benito for the stage win. Despite narrowly missing out on victory, Benito expressed a mixture of pride and frustration, acknowledging the confidence the effort has given her after a challenging period. The stage unfolded strategically for Benito’s team, with Nicole Steigenga initiating an early breakaway that helped set the stage for Benito’s decisive move. Once Steigenga was caught, Benito seized the moment amid hesitation in the peloton and quickly built a significant lead of nearly 90 seconds. Her time trial skills allowed her to maintain a strong, consistent pace, though the climb of Alto de Bocos and a persistent headwind gradually reduced her advantage. The relentless effort took a toll, but Benito’s determination kept her ahead until the final chase group closed in. When Bredewold bridged the gap alongside Amanda Spratt and Silke Smulders, Benito welcomed the company after a long solo effort, recognising the tactical advantage of working together despite Bredewold’s superior sprinting ability. She chose to keep collaborating rather than conserve energy, understanding that maintaining the pace was their best chance to contest the stage win. Benito’s willingness to commit fully to the race dynamics highlighted her tactical maturity and team-oriented mindset. Finishing second on the stage propelled Benito to third place in the general classification, a significant improvement from her 12th-place finish the previous year. Looking ahead, she plans to support her team leader Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio on the decisive summit finish at Lagunas de Neila, emphasising the importance of recovery and teamwork. Benito’s strong showing not only boosts her personal confidence but also strengthens her role within AG Insurance-Soudal as they target overall success in the race.