MADRID, Aug. 24 (Xinhua) -- The third stage of the Vuelta a Espana cycling race was abandoned on Monday due to a torrential thunderstorm.
The storm, with thunder and lightning accompanied by heavy rain and hail, saw race leader Tadej Pogacar ride to the front of the peloton and wave for the riders to stop and seek shelter less than 20 kilometers from the finish at the top of Font-Romeu.
"For the security of the riders, stage three has been cancelled due to hail and severe weather. There will be no winner and no podium ceremony," the race organizers said.
Tuesday's fourth stage is a 104.8-kilometer route starting and finishing in Andorra la Vella, featuring three first-category climbs and one third-category climb before a downhill run to the finish. ■