Early on in stage 6 of the Vuelta a España, sharp-eyed fans would have noticed a familiar face in the breakaway group for specialist Tomas de Gendt in what would be his final Grand Tour race.

The 37-year-old de Gendt did not fare well this time around. But with his ability to pull off a breakaway now forming part of pro cycling urban legend, expectations remain high that the Lotto-Destney racer will at some point break away from the front and at least contend for the last stage win.

Young teammate Renate van Eatveld is in contention for the overall, but sport director Mario Aerts told Cycling News that this will not affect the Belgian veteran's chances to shine on his own account.

“For now, we are still keeping all our options open,” Aerts said. 'Thomas will be Thomas and work for Lenny when he needs to. Thomas is Thomas and will work for Lenny when needed. [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...]

De Gendt may soon bring the curtain down on his entire professional career, including breakaways, but according to what he told Cycling News, the sense of nostalgia stemming from the approaching end to his 16-year career has not yet struck a chord.

“The Vuelta is not my last race. So it's like one of the many Grand Tours, at least for now. I'm going to do the best I can, the best I can, and save as much energy as I can.”

“The last day of the Vuelta will probably be the last time trial, so it might change then, but I don't feel anything yet. But for now I just focus on the race and stay focused until the end.”

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