FILE PHOTO - Tinkoff-Saxo's team rider Rafael Majka (R) and Astana's Mikel Landa of Spain ride during the 16th stage of the Vuelta Tour of Spain cycling race from Luarca to Ermita del Alba, northern Spain, September 7, 2015. REUTERS/Joseba Etxaburu
MADRID (Reuters) - Complaints from many riders that the Vuelta a Espana has included too many punishing climbs in recent years fell on deaf ears as organisers unveiled another demanding route on Thursday featuring nine mountain finishes.
While the opening stage will take place outside Spain for only the third time, with riders setting off in Nimes, France, on Aug. 19, other aspects of the three-week race will concern those taking part.
