January 26, Stage 5: McLaren Vale - Old Willunga Hill 151.5km
Stage 5 profile
What Stuart O'Grady says...
It's always windy down there around Willunga. Every year that I've raced the wind plays a massive factor. After few hard days of racing in the legs the guys are running on their reserves and Willunga is really tough. Everyone is kind of thinking about getting up there the second time so no one really wants to go deep the first time. But there is always people attacking and trying to split up the race.
It's very hard for a small group to stay away. Last year we saw Leopard-Trek rip it up over the top and they blew things to pieces. I'd imagine this year will be very similar and the best guy will win at the top.
Profile
Image ©: Santos Tour Down Under
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Latest on Cyclingnews
-
Cycling transfers – All the latest news and announcements for the 2026 season
The ultimate guide to the pro cycling transfer window, tracking every move across the men's and women's WorldTours -
Six moments that defined the 2025 Vuelta a España
The turning points of a brutally difficult race and the 'saddest Vuelta in history' -
'It’s a pity that such a moment of eternity was taken from us' – Jonas Vingegaard settles for improvised Vuelta a España podium celebrations
'The participants must be protected' - Visma team manager Richard Plugge appeals for rider safety -
'Next time it will only get worse' – Riders ask for solutions after Vuelta a España ends with protests and yet another stage cancellation
Michal Kwiatkowski vocal in criticism of handling of final stage in Madrid