Three-times world champion Oscar Freire of Spain did not start the Vuelta a Espana's 15th stage from Solares to Lagos de Covadonga. The Rabobank rider, who was in 75th overall, pulled out to train for the world championship road race, which takes place on October 3 in Melbourne, Australia.

Spain's Freire, who won the world championships in 1999, 2001 and 2004, has hopes of a record fourth title.
The Tour of Spain finishes on September 19 in Madrid. Italy's Vincenzo Nibali is the race leader.