Talavera de la Reina, Spain - Anthony Roux edged French compatriot William Bonnet to win the 17th stage of cycling's Tour of Spain on Wednesday. FDJeux rider Roux just held off a challenge from the main field in a sprint finish to take the 193.6-kilometre stage from Ciudad Real to Talavera de la Reina in 4 hours 28 minutes 14 seconds.
Roux had spent most of the race out on his own in front after an initial five-man break, and just managed to hold off the closing main field in the sprint to the line.
Bouyges Telecom rider Bonnet did enough for second place ahead of Germany's Andre Greipel of the Columbia team.
Spain's Alejandro Valverde of Caisse d'Epargne continues to hold a 31-second overall lead over Rabobank rider Robert Gesink of the Netherlands, who recovered from a fall in a pile-up in which he suffered cuts and bruises.
Samuel Sanchez of Spain, riding for Euskaltel-Euskadi, remains third, 1:10 back.
Thursday's 18th stage is a 175km mountainous stretch from Talavera de la Reina to Avila. The Vuelta finishes in Madrid on Sunday
