The "maillot rojo," or red jersey, is a symbol of leadership in the Vuelta a España, one of cycling's three Grand Tours. It is awarded to the rider with the lowest cumulative time over the course of the race. This prestigious jersey signifies not only speed but also strategic skill in navigating the challenging stages of the competition. Wearing the maillot rojo is a significant achievement for cyclists, as it represents their dominance in the race. The jersey is often a source of motivation for competitors, pushing them to perform at their best in pursuit of this iconic symbol of success in professional cycling.