"I've been close to this dream before, but achieving it now is something truly incredible. I held on today, and I'm proud of how the time trial went, finishing in style. I was really surprised to make it to stage 19 still wearing the red jersey, and it was really nice to have that feeling that maybe one day you can win a Grand Tour. It's something I probably thought was unrealistic, especially after the Giro , so to be this close here is really special."

It's an exceptional result. We know how difficult it is to finish on the podium in a Grand tour. There was a lot of competition and adversity in this Vuelta España. Ben seized a great opportunity on the sixth stage, putting in a tremendous performance that propelled him into the lead with a comfortable advantage. Then, the whole team got caught up in the momentum of defending the red jersey. The guys were exemplary, courageous, and selfless every day, defending the jersey with heart and soul and putting Ben in the best position to fight against the favorites who attacked him relentlessly on very difficult courses. Each of his teammates gave him the strength to push himself to the limit on every stage, day after day. Today, Ben achieved another superb time, and this second place is thoroughly deserved. To finish on the podium in a Grand Tour is truly fabulous. I am really very proud of what the team has achieved.