Sepp Kuss Downplays Expectations as He Defends Vuelta a Espana Title

American cyclist Sepp Kuss prepares to defend his Vuelta a Espana title, starting in Lisbon. Kuss won the event last year and emerged victorious in the recent Vuelta a Burgos. While he doesn't see himself as the favorite, he's ready to lead Team Visma-Lease A Bike and aims to find good rhythm quickly.

American Sepp Kuss is beginning his defense of the Vuelta a Espana title in Lisbon. Kuss, who made history as the first American to win a Grand Tour in a decade, will lead the Visma-Lease A Bike team. He outperformed Jonas Vingegaard and Primoz Roglic last year.

Despite a setback due to a COVID-19 infection that kept him out of this year's Tour de France, Kuss comes into the race in good form, having recently won the Vuelta a Burgos. Speaking on the Dutch team's website, Kuss expressed his contentment, saying, 'It was a very satisfying feeling to win in Burgos.'

Kuss remains cautious about making firm predictions for the Vuelta a Espana, emphasizing his different preparation this year compared to previous editions. He stated, 'I want to enjoy the next few weeks and don't see myself as the top favorite for the overall victory.'