A lot of climbs in the 3rd stage of Vuelta al Pais Vasco and a course that was not suitable for the characteristics of Rui Costa. Despite these facts, the Portuguese from Team LAMPRE-MERIDA could limit his lossesusing his huge determination and exploiting the support by an outstanding Jan Polanc.

The stage started in Vitoria and finished in Zumarraga after 170,7 km and 8 climbs: its key moment was on Alto de la Antigua, 2500 meters with a max gradient of 20% and average gradient of 9,6%. Despite the fact that this climb was not completely suitable for the Portuguese rider and that his feelings did not allow him to be a protagonist, Costa managed to limit the loss at the summit of the climb (with 3km to go) and he could recover some seconds in the downhill to the finish.

LAMPRE-MERIDA's captain crossed the finish line in 21st position, 26" behind the winner Rodriguez.

Jan Polanc again did a superb performance, giving his support to Rui Costa in the very final kilometers- Polanc, 22 years old from Slovenia, recently was forced to stop in March because of a fracture of the scaphoid.

In the overall classification, Rui Costa is 21st, 26 seconds behind new leader Henao.

"Today turned outto be a stage of transition in which we had to defend ourselves. Rui, while not having the sensations it needed to be a protagonist, did well and was able to count on the support help of the whole team," sports director Philippe Mauduit said.

"There are still interesting and decisive stages. We have to look at them with optimism because we have the quality and desire to do well ."