Stage 5: Eibar -> Eibar
The iconic stage to and from Eibar once again delivered a tough day in Itzulia, with demanding climbs such as Krabelin, Trabakua and Izua setting the scene for an explosive finale. Early in the race, a large breakaway of 33 riders was given the freedom to go clear, including Mattia Gaffuri and Juan Martinez for Team Picnic PostNL. The group quickly built up a lead of around five minutes, appearing set to battle it out for the stage win among themselves.
However, the peloton had other plans. Increasing the pace significantly in the final part of the race, the breakaway was eventually reeled back in, turning the stage into a showdown for the GC contenders. Seixas claimed his third victory of the week, while Gaffuri was the first finisher for Team Picnic PostNL, crossing the line just outside the top 20.