1. 1983: The First Appearance of Lagos de Covadonga

The 1983 La Vuelta saw the introduction of one of its most iconic climbs, the Lagos de Covadonga, which would quickly become a defining stage in the race’s history. On this new and daunting ascent, Marino Lejarreta became the first rider to conquer the climb, delivering a performance that cemented his place in Spanish cycling folklore.

• Why It Was Epic: The introduction of the Lagos de Covadonga added a new level of challenge to La Vuelta, and Lejarreta’s victory marked the start of a new era of climbing-focused races in the event.

• Legacy: The Covadonga has since become one of the most famous climbs in La Vuelta, often determining the fate of the general classification. Lejarreta’s victory put him on the map as one of Spain’s top climbers.

2. 1999: The Angliru’s Brutal Debut

La Vuelta added the Alto de l'Angliru to its route in 1999, and its debut lived up to every bit of its brutal reputation. Riders struggled with the extreme gradients, and rain made the conditions even more treacherous. Spanish rider José María Jiménez won the stage after a heroic performance, solidifying his reputation as one of the best climbers of his generation.

• Why It Was Epic: The Angliru instantly became one of the toughest and most feared climbs in cycling. Riders were forced to push their bikes due to the sheer steepness, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

• Legacy: The Angliru is now one of the most iconic stages in La Vuelta, known for its ability to reshape the general classification and produce dramatic moments.

3. 2005: Roberto Heras Wins a Record Fourth Vuelta

In 2005, Roberto Heras won his fourth La Vuelta title, setting a record that still stands today. Heras, known for his climbing prowess, delivered consistent performances throughout the race, sealing his victory in the mountains.

• Why It Was Epic: Heras’s fourth victory marked him as the most successful rider in La Vuelta history. His ability to dominate the mountains and time trials made him untouchable during this edition.

• Legacy: Despite a later doping controversy (which led to the temporary stripping of his title), Heras’s victories are still celebrated as a testament to his dominance in La Vuelta, and his fourth win was reinstated in 2012 after legal battles.

4. 2017: Alberto Contador’s Farewell Victory on the Angliru

The 2017 edition of La Vuelta provided one of the most emotional and memorable victories in the race’s history. Alberto Contador, one of the greatest Spanish riders of all time, was riding his final Grand Tour, and he delivered an epic performance on the Alto de l’Angliru to win the stage in solo fashion.

• Why It Was Epic: Contador’s victory on the Angliru was a fitting end to his illustrious career. His attack on the steepest section of the climb demonstrated his fearless and aggressive riding style, which had defined his career.

• Legacy: Contador’s farewell victory is often remembered as one of the most emotional moments in La Vuelta’s history. His attack on the Angliru is still celebrated as a testament to his never-say-die attitude.

5. 2019: Primož Roglič Takes His First Grand Tour Victory

Primož Roglič, a former ski jumper turned cyclist, won his first Grand Tour at the 2019 La Vuelta a España. Roglič’s performance was marked by his dominance in both the time trials and the mountains, showcasing his versatility as an all-rounder. His victory was a breakthrough moment in his career, launching him into the elite ranks of the sport.

• Why It Was Epic: Roglič had been knocking on the door of a Grand Tour victory for several years, and his triumph at La Vuelta was a long-awaited breakthrough. He took control of the race in the time trial and defended his lead through the mountains.

• Legacy: Roglič’s win marked the beginning of his reign as one of the top Grand Tour riders, and he would go on to win La Vuelta again in 2020 and 2021, establishing himself as a dominant force in the race.

6. 2020: Roglič vs. Carapaz in a Thrilling Battle

The 2020 edition of La Vuelta saw one of the most thrilling battles in recent memory, with Primož Roglič and Richard Carapaz going head-to-head for the red jersey. After the heartbreak of losing the Tour de France just weeks earlier, Roglič was determined to make up for it in Spain, but Carapaz refused to make it easy. The race came down to the final mountain stages, with Roglič narrowly holding on to win.

• Why It Was Epic: The 2020 La Vuelta was a tense, back-and-forth battle between two of the world’s best riders. Roglič had to dig deep to hold off Carapaz, and the final week of the race was full of drama.

• Legacy: Roglič’s redemption after his Tour de France heartbreak made his victory even sweeter, and the 2020 La Vuelta is remembered as one of the closest and most competitive editions in recent history.

7. 1985: Pedro Delgado’s First Vuelta Victory

Spanish cycling legend Pedro Delgado claimed his first La Vuelta victory in 1985 after a dramatic and unexpected turn of events in the final stages. Delgado was not the favorite heading into the race but used his tactical intelligence and climbing ability to outmaneuver his rivals, particularly on the decisive mountain stages.

• Why It Was Epic: Delgado’s victory was unexpected and came after a thrilling battle in the mountains, where he proved his mettle as one of Spain’s best climbers. His win was a proud moment for Spanish cycling, and it set the stage for his later successes in the Tour de France.

• Legacy: Delgado would go on to win La Vuelta again in 1989 and become a national hero in Spain, inspiring future generations of Spanish cyclists like Miguel Induráin and Alberto Contador.

Conclusion

La Vuelta a España has a rich history of epic races, where riders have delivered unforgettable performances and cemented their place in cycling history. From the brutal slopes of the Angliru to career-defining victories on the Lagos de Covadonga, these races showcase the grit, determination, and brilliance required to win one of cycling’s most challenging Grand Tours. Each of these legendary races is a testament to the enduring appeal of La Vuelta, a race where the toughest riders rise to the occasion and write their names in the annals of cycling history.