The third stage of the Vuelta a España concluded without a victor as it was abruptly halted due to a severe hailstorm on Monday. Riders faced challenging conditions on the 174km route from Gruissan to Font-Romeu, which was set to finish in the French Pyrenees.

With approximately 15km remaining, competitors sought refuge in nearby shops and restaurants as they approached the Col de Mont-Louis. The race organizers had to neutralize the event when large hailstones began to batter the riders, creating icy road conditions and increasing the risk of lightning strikes. Ultimately, the stage was suspended, and no winner was declared.

Race organizers stated, "For the security of the riders, stage three has been cancelled due to hail and severe weather. There will be no winner and no podium ceremony."

During the storm, riders communicated among themselves, urging caution. Mats Wenzel of Equipo Kern Pharm and Lorenzo Fortunato of XDS Astana were leading in a breakaway when the race was called off.

As heavy rain descended on the peloton with about 25km left, Tadej Pogacar, the reigning Tour de France champion, maintained his lead in the general classification. He holds a nine-second advantage over Wout van Aert, with Matthew Brennan just a second behind in third place.

Looking ahead, Tuesday's 105km stage promises a challenging route through the Andorran mountains, featuring three climbs that could see the leading contenders break away from the pack.