Sepp Kuss: In the Spotlight for Spanish Vuelta Title Defense

Sepp Kuss is set to defend his Spanish Vuelta title amid notable absences like Primoz Roglic and Jonas Vingegaard. With no major support from key riders, Kuss emphasizes greater focus. The race begins in Lisbon, spans three weeks, and introduces new safety measures including a yellow card system.

Sepp Kuss is in the spotlight as he aims to retain his Spanish Vuelta title, having emerged victorious last year over Primoz Roglic and Jonas Vingegaard. With Roglic now joining Team Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe and Vingegaard on a hiatus, Kuss leads Team Visma-Lease a Bike in this year's race.

'I want to honour the race being with the No. 1,' Kuss stated, noting the absence of two main riders adds more focus. He arrives in top form, having clinched the Burgos Vuelta last week. His absence from the Tour de France was due to a COVID-19 setback.

The 2024 Vuelta will kick off in Lisbon, covering eight mountain stages and two individual time-trials over three weeks. New safety measures, including a yellow card system, will be in effect to prevent misconduct. Big names such as Tour de France winner Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel will not compete this year.