Overview

• UAE Team Emirates-XRG said it agreed with Juan Ayuso to terminate his long-term deal at the end of the year, citing differing development plans and sporting philosophy.
• Ayuso said he received about 30 minutes’ notice before the release and accused team bosses of disrespect, describing the setup as a “dictatorship.”
• Tensions spilled into the open when captain João Almeida criticized Ayuso for not helping on a key climb, as the Spaniard focused on stage wins rather than the general classification.
• Ayuso and team staff indicated he will remain in the Vuelta and work toward team goals for the remaining stages, with UAE still collecting wins and Almeida well placed overall.
• Reports link the 22-year-old to a possible move to Lidl–Trek after the season, though no transfer has been announced.