Enric Mas showcased his climbing prowess during stage 14 of the Vuelta a Espana, extending his overall lead on September 10, 2023. In a dramatic turnaround from last year's performance, Mas conquered the Sierra de la Pandera, while Marco Brenner celebrated his first grand tour stage win, marking only his third professional victory.

Brenner, at just 24 years old, joined a four-rider group on the final ascent, successfully chasing down Santiago Buitrago's late attack. After the race, he expressed his disbelief, stating, “I cannot really believe it yet... You live for days like today.”

Mas, who previously lost time to Primoz Roglic on this climb in 2022, added 25 seconds to his lead over the four-time champion, who slipped to third overall, 2’10” behind. Felix Gall moved up to second place, just 2’06” adrift of Mas.

The stage, measuring 154.5km from Jaen, featured the challenging 11.8km climb averaging 7.5%, with sections reaching 15% and even 17% gradients. The day saw a significant breakaway, with Kevin Vermaerke from UAE Team Emirates-XRG initially breaking clear before being caught with 14km remaining.

On the final climb, the lead fluctuated until Brenner and the others established their position. Brenner’s quick reaction to Buitrago’s attack allowed him to surge ahead in the last kilometer, crossing the finish line triumphantly.

Earlier in the race, Richard Carapaz's team attempted to replicate past successes, but Movistar regained control, propelling Mas up the steep slopes. Despite losing key riders, Gall managed a strong performance, positioning himself strategically ahead of the upcoming individual time trial.

The next stage on September 11 features a hilly 110km route from Palma del Rio to Cordoba, shortened due to heat warnings with temperatures expected to reach 40 degrees.