Race news

Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country due to stomach problems

Juan Ayuso (Lidl-Trek) has abandoned Itzulia Basque Country mid-way through the fourth stage. 

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Juan Ayuso 2026 Itzulia Basque Country stage 2
Inaki Azanza / Cor Vos

Lidl-Trek confirmed that Ayuso had to abandon due to stomach problems, and the news was communicated on the official race centre that he had withdrawn from the race.

Ayuso started stage 4 outside of the GC picture, 54th in the overall standings and 16:21 behind race leader Paul Seixas (Decathlon CMA CGM). 

Speaking at the sign-on for stage 4, Ayuso confirmed that he had been dealing with stomach problems, which, combined with his disrupted preparation after crashing out of Paris-Nice while in the race lead, have seen him struggle through the opening stages.

Ayuso isn’t the first high-profile abandon in the Basque Country this week after Isaac del Toro crashed out on stage 3, suffering a right thigh muscle tear and several related abrasions.

Pogacar Tour 2026
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