A car hit Roglič in training weeks before the race, leaving a haematoma bad enough that his start was rated 50-50 and he had to skip both Clásica San Sebastián and Vuelta a Burgos. His Stage 6 showing on Puerto El Bartolo — the only rider who could bridge to Pogačar's attack — proved the legs still work. But the standings math that actually matters happened on Stage 8: Pogačar's withdrawal deletes the only rider Roglič hadn't beaten, and a four-time champion who was fighting to reach the start line is suddenly the closest thing to a threat Mas has.