Vuelta a Espana 2019, stage 18 – full results and standings: Sergio Higuita wins as Primoz Roglic extends his lead
Sergio Higuita claimed a solo victory on stage 18 of the Vuelta a España as Primoz Roglic finished second to strengthen his overall lead.
Higuita (EF Education First) held out from an initial three-strong breakaway to come home 15 seconds clear of Roglic, who sprinted clear of a group including Alejandro Valverde.
Roglic (Jumbo-Visma) earned 6sec time bonus for his big finish, which ensures he moves 2min 50sec clear of Valverde, who returned to second place ahead of Movistar team-mate Nairo Quintana.
Higuita was part of the crucial breakaway on the final climb, before a further attack swept the Colombian 45 seconds clear at the foot of the descent. Rogic and Valverde were both part of an initial 21-strong chasing group which dropped Quintana while Higuita managed to sustain his sizeable advantage.
Riding in his first grand tour, the Colombian crossed the line first while Rogic's strong finish puts him in pole position ahead of the final three stages of the race.
The Vuelta continues on Friday with the 165.2km stage from Ávila to Toledo and concludes in Madrid on Sunday.
