Jonas Vingegaard forced to ride team-mate Ben Tulett's bike after puncture in nervy moment at La Vuelta on Stage 16

Jonas Vingegaard was shoved back into Stage 16 at La Vuelta after a puncture forced him to borrow team-mate Ben Tulett’s bike. The Dane tossed aside his own ride before pressing on after assistance from Tulett, although his overall lead was never seriously under threat as his rivals chose not to attack. The stage was later shortened due to protests, with Ineos star Egan Bernal taking victory.

Jonas Vingegaard survived a scare on Stage 16 at La Vuelta after he was forced to ditch his own bike and leap onto team-mate Ben Tulett's.

With 18km remaining, the race leader suffered a puncture and dropped back from a select group of favourites, flanked by Tulett.

Vingegaard tossed his bike aside before borrowing his team-mate's, aided by a hefty push to kickstart his chase.

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"Issues, issues," cried Rob Hatch on TNT Sports commentary as the Dane scrambled to regain momentum.

Thankfully for Vingegaard, his red jersey rivals showed no appetite to attack, while Tulett's bike was near enough to his own fit.

"You have to say that is well thought, well executed, as good as you can do," added Hatch.

Stage 16 highlights: Bernal wins at foot of final climb after stage shortened due to protests

Video credit: TNT Sports

TNT Sports expert Adam Blythe praised Visma-Lease a Bike's teamwork after the speedy bike swap.

"Especially in these situations when the team cars are so far behind because of the narrow roads, you do need your team-mates alongside you in these situations," Blythe said.

"Tulett being there for his leader Jonas Vingegaard, quick bike change, and that was perfect timing."

However, Blythe cautioned: "Riding up a hill on someone else's bike is never comfortable. A couple of millimetres in the saddle can make a big difference."

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That ultimately proved irrelevant after the stage was cut short by fresh protests, with organisers moving the finish 8km forward to the base of the final climb to avoid pro-Palestine demonstrators on the planned route.

Egan Bernal (Ineos Grenadiers) claimed his first major win since his life-threatening crash in 2022, comfortably outsprinting Mikel Landa (Soudal Quick-Step) from the breakaway in unusual circumstances.

Vingegaard stayed 48 seconds clear of Joao Almeida (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) in the general classification, with Britain's Tom Pidcock (Q36.5) third at 2’38".

'Had a little bit in the throat' - Vingegaard brushes off 'coughing' concerns

Video credit: TNT Sports

Speaking to TNT Sports prior to Tuesday's stage, Vingegaard revealed he had been struggling with illness.

"I had a little bit in the throat the last week, but I'm feeling better now," said Vingegaard.

"I think there has been a lot of sickness in the bunch. Nothing that bothers me."

Victor Campenaerts withdrew before the final week, leaving the Dane with just five team-mates to defend his red jersey.

"I am very disappointed not to be able to help Jonas bring the red jersey to Madrid," said Campenaerts.

"Before I fell ill, I was feeling really good and was able to do my job for the team. I’ll be cheering for Jonas and the guys from home."

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