Starting with a circuit of Ordizia, the Vuelta starts with an undulating opening stage, including two ascents of the category-two Alto de Gaintza – the last of which peaks within seven kilometres of the finishing line.

The Alto de Abaltzisketa must also be crested twice, with a total of eight ascents in all – the latter in particular an area where some riders may look to snatch some early seconds on their rivals.

Stage two features less climbing, but includes two significant ascents in quick succession: the category two Gorosmendi and the Usatgieta. The category-one ascent of the Alto de Lizaieta could also cause some splits but if the race stays together over the top it is well set-up for a bunch finish.

The same rings true of the 194.5km third stage, which climbs almost immediately to the summit of the Alto de Otsondo before the long ascent of the Belate. However, once those are completed, the stage features only minor ramps before two category three climbs just short of the finish.

Though they offer the chance for a late attack, if the sprinters’ teams can control the bunch it will be one of the quick men who wins in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

GC contenders will face their biggest battles on stage four, which finishes with a six-kilometre slog up the category one climb of the Alto de Usartza.

With an average gradient of 6.7 per cent and ramps reaching 11 per cent in parts, the climb features for the sixth consecutive year, with the stage finishing with a slight downhill over the top.

Quintana won the stage last year, finishing just two seconds clear of a chasing group including the likes of Alberto Contador, Carlos Betancur and Richie Porte.

The Alto de Aiastia, at less than nine kilometres from the finish of the penultimate stage, could also pave the way for splits to be formed before the race concludes with a punchy 25.9km time trial – featuring two climbs en route.