Paul Seixas strengthened his grip on Itzulia Basque Country on Thursday, extending his overall lead as Alex Aranburu sprinted to victory on stage four.

The French teenager increased his advantage in the general classification by 20 seconds to 2 minutes 19 seconds over Primož Roglič, with Florian Lipowitz a further nine seconds back.

Seixas finished eighth on the stage, continuing his consistent run after dominating the opening two days.

"I didn't take all the risks I know of," Seixas said.

"I trust myself right now, it's quite psychological the descents."

"There are moments of the year where I feel better than others, at this race I feel really at ease," he added.

American rider Brandon McNulty launched an early breakaway but was caught with 36 kilometers remaining.

Alex Aranburu Wins Stage Four In Galdakao

Aranburu sprinted to victory after attacking late in the stage alongside Tobias Halland Johannessen.

The Spanish rider edged Johannessen by four seconds, with Christian Scaroni finishing eight seconds behind after the 167.2-kilometer stage centered around Galdakao.

The Cofidis rider, from nearby Ezkio-Itsaso, secured his third career stage win in the race, adding to victories in 2021 and 2025.

Despite a late charge from a chasing group, Aranburu held on to take the win with a powerful sprint inside the final 500 meters.

Stage five, the penultimate stage, will be a demanding 176.2-kilometer route starting and finishing in Eibar.