After two "flat" stages, which were won by Bouhanni (Cofidis) and Gallopin (AG2R), this weekend promises two interesting stages again.

Source

Stage 8: Linares - Almadén

Today's stage is again classified as a flat one. As so often in the Vuelta, the final could be pretty interesting. The last kilometres namely go up quite a bit, so that could be a problem for the "pure" sprinters. Sounds like a Sagan day again, although there could be (at least) one quicker sprinter to make it to the top as well.

Last 5 kilometers of the stage (Source)

Stage 9: Talavera de la Reina - La Covatilla

Tomorrows stage is going to be a big one for the climbers and GC-riders. The finish is on the Alto de la Covatilla, a 10 km, 7% pass (special category). We'll probably going to see the first (real) battle for the red jersey. It is going to be interesting to see which rider is best in shape and takes a first step to bringing the red in Madrid.

Stage profile on Sunday (Source)