Philippe Gilbert's rapid Vuelta a España stage victory sets new record

The Belgian takes the Ruban Jaune after completing the race at an average speed of 50.63kmh

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Stage 17 of the 2019 Vuelta a España was held at such a pace that the TV coverage had to be brought forward by half an hour to make sure viewers could actually see some of the action before its end.

The huge 40+ rider breakaway group that escaped from the drop of the flag on the 219.6km stage set off at a frightening pace in the crosswinds, with a tailwind in the later part of the stage ensuring that the speed would last to the line.

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