Proycling's Analysis: Inland from the Costa Blanca, this stage features three categorised climbs. The toughest is the second-cat Muela but that comes early on. The Millares and Beniganim ascents – both new to the race – are easier and may not prove decisive. There are also two laps of a circuit in Xàtiva and the finish line is adjacent to the castle for which the town is best known.
Culture Vulture: Named after a Lebanese gold and fabric merchant, Xàtiva stands at crossroads between trade and transport.
Local hero: The Contentpolis team will be looking to Valencia’s Adrián Palomares to impart his experience and know-how on the young team they’re set to field. Palomares has been enjoying his best pro season so far.
Article continues belowVuelta Retro: This is the first time Xàtiva has hosted a stage finish. In 2004, the stage to the Alto de Aitana started here.
Neil Stephens says: It's pretty much a copy of the day before - all we'll be doing is keeping Alejandro safe and sound.
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