Remco Evenepoel settled a two-man battle in his favor at the Clásica San Sebastián on Saturday, outsprinting Richard Carapaz down the final stretch to claim one of Europe's most prestigious one-day races. The Belgian's decisive finish denied the Ecuadorian what would have been a strong result, leaving Colombian interests to be carried by Brandon Rivera, who emerged as the best-placed rider from the country.

Evenepoel's Late Aggression Pays Off

The Belgian and Carapaz separated from the field in the closing kilometers, setting up a direct contest for the title. Evenepoel's superior leg speed in the final meters proved the difference, allowing him to open daylight at the line and raise his arms in victory. The win underscores his continued form in demanding one-day terrain, where tactical positioning and finishing strength often decide outcomes.

Carapaz's Tough Day on a Course Built for His Style

For Carapaz, the loss marked a missed opportunity on terrain that typically suits climbers and aggressive riders capable of mounting attacks on the race's multiple ascents. The Ecuadorian was in contention until the final sprint, but lacked the acceleration needed to match Evenepoel's burst. The defeat came despite clear legs and positioning entering the final push.

Colombian Contingent Falls Short

Brandon Rivera led the Colombian charge without reaching the podium places, illustrating the gap between the region's cycling depth and the level required to win or medal at WorldTour one-day classics. Nairo Quintana, long a fixture in these races, did not feature prominently in the result, a reflection of how the competition's complexity has shifted since his peak years. Rivera's solid showing at least provided a domestic storyline in a race that rarely produces Colombian headlines outside occasional breakthrough performances.

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Evenepoel Edges Carapaz in San Sebastián Sprint