The entry into the home territory of the Tour of Spain will take place on Tuesday and with the first high finish, in a mountainous first-class count, in Pico Viluercas, in a stage that starts in Plasencia, just over 150 kilometres from Castelo Branco, where the caravan said goodbye to Portugal on Monday. Being a mountain stage, even if it is the first, the favourites are expected to be at the front. But for João Almeida (UAE), who is ninth in the overall standings (32 seconds behind Wout van Aert), today could be complicated. “I don't have many chances. I will do my best to get to the best possible position,” said the rider from Dos Francos, explaining that he is not feeling well, but ensuring that he will “leave everything on the road”. “But whether it is good or bad, I will give it my all, and cycling has these things too, doesn't it? It is always unpredictable sometimes.”

Behind him were three stations on the national soil that he will never forget. “I made a positive assessment [das etapas portuguesas]”It was a really good time trial, I was really happy with the result and the effort, and then I had two days with a lot of support. There are no words at all. It was amazing and it's always been great.”

The support seen during the Tour of Spain also extended through Portugal to Nelson Oliveira (Movistar) and Rui Costa (EF Education), in 10th place (in 33 seconds) and 58th place (in 1.10 minutes), respectively in the general classification.

“It was beautiful to have all the love of the Portuguese people applauding and supporting us throughout the journey to Castelo Branco. It is a great gratitude and pride,” Nelson admitted.

“It was great to be here, it was a great pleasure for me. After so many years on the World Tour, I was able to play a match in Portugal, alongside all the Portuguese…”, confirmed Rui Costa.