The 2011 Vuelta a España was held from 20 August to 11 September. The race began in Benidorm with a team time trial and ended, as is traditional, in Madrid. The 2011 Vuelta was the 66th edition of the race and was the first Vuelta in 33 years that visited the Basque Country. The 33-year absence of the region was due to fear of political protests. This year's Vuelta saw the introduction of a combativity award in much the same way as the Tour de France. The most combative rider each stage is awarded a red backnumber which he wears for the next stage.