Kamikaze Contador Takes Vuelta Lead

Alberto Contador made a remarkable escape on stage 17 riding his way first across the line on Fuente De and also into the GC lead. Rodriguez was unable to respond to Contador's and Valverde's attacks and crossed the finish line 2:38 down in 10th place. Rodriguez had worn the leader's red jersey for the past13 days, but today dropped back to third overall as Contador took over first place and Valverde moved into second. View the full stage 17 Vuelta a Espana results here.