Frustrated Joshua Tarling is hard on himself after missing out on time trial victory: ‘Opportunity missed’

Joshua Tarling is disappointed with his performance during the opening time trial of the 2024 Vuelta a España. The 20-year-old Briton from INEOS Grenadiers indicated afterwards that he felt very bad along the way. “I have no idea why, but I don’t feel good,” says a clearly frustrated Tarling. Eurosport.

Many considered him the favourite to wear the first red jersey, but he had to settle for sixth in the opening time trial of the Vuelta. “I had a really tough time between the Olympics and the Vuelta and I felt really bad today. I have no idea why, but I don’t feel good. Not to take away the winner’s credit, he rode very well,” says the sympathetic rider.

Tarling during the Olympic time trial in Paris – Photo: Cor Vos

Tarling ended up missing out on the podium in the Olympic time trial in Paris due to a mechanical failure. By winning the opening time trial at the Vuelta, the Briton had hoped to get rid of the bitter taste of the Olympics. But then he had to conclude that wasn’t possible today either. “I had a lot of confidence today, but things didn’t go so well during the time trial.”

Tarling is clear about his goals for the rest of the Vuelta. “I didn’t take my chance today, so I will dedicate myself to helping the team in the coming weeks.” With Thimmin Arnsmann and Carlos Rodriguez as leaders, INEOS Grenadiers will be hoping for a good classification.