Cycling star Roglič nabs fourth Vuelta a España title

Slovenian cyclist Primož Roglič has secured his fourth Vuelta a España title, becoming the joint record winner of the race after the final individual time trial of the 79th edition in Madrid on Sunday.

The 24-kilometre race saw Roglič, riding for the German Red Bull team, finish second, sealing his overall victory by 2:36 minutes ahead of Australia’s Ben O'Connor. Spain’s Enric Mas finished third.

Roglič, who previously won the Vuelta three times between 2019 and 2021, now ties with Spain’s Roberto Heras for the most Vuelta victories. Heras’ record was temporarily revoked due to a doping charge but was later reinstated after a court ruling.

Swiss rider Stefan Küng claimed victory in the final time trial, but Roglič's strong performance secured his place at the top of the overall standings.

Roglič regained the red leader's jersey on Friday after a decisive performance at Alto de Moncalvillo, overcoming O'Connor, who had held the jersey since stage six.

The race marked a breakthrough for German rider Florian Lipowitz, who finished seventh overall and placed third in stage six, completing his first full Grand Tour.

Roglič's Vuelta victory provides a welcome boost for Red Bull following a challenging summer.

The team faced a series of setbacks at the Tour de France, including Roglič’s withdrawal after stage 12 due to injuries from a crash. Red Bull ended the Tour without a stage win.