Bytagand the publication "Vuelta 2026: a ruthless journey from Monaco to Granada"
Presented on December 17, 2025 in Monaco, the 2026 edition of the Tour of Spain promises to be one of the most demanding in its history. With over 58,000 meters of elevation gain, seven summit finishes, and a route concentrated in southern Spain, this 81st Vuelta (August 22 to September 13) promises an intense spectacle for the climbers, often under scorching heat.
A prestigious Grand Départ in Monaco
Monaco, which becomes the only city in the world to have hosted the start of all three Grand Tours (after the Giro d'Italia in 1966 and the Tour de France in 2009), will launch the race with a 9km individual time trial through its legendary streets. The second stage will take the peloton into France, to Manosque, before a third stage from Gruissan to Font-Romeu, already marking the start of the Tour de France.tagne.
The fourth stage, entirely in Andorra (104 km), promises to be epic with the mythical Port d'Envalira (28 km at 5%, culminating at 2,400 m) right from the start.
A menu mytagtwo without respite
Gone are the classic northern climbs like the Angliru or the Covadonga Lakes: the route focuses on the south and the Mediterranean. Sprinters will have only a handful of opportunities, while punchers and climbers will dominate.
Key moments included:
- Arrival at the summit at the Alto de Aitana (where Pierre Latour won in 2016).
- The terrible Sierra de la Pandera (13,5 km at 7,3%).
- Two decisive stages at the end of the race: Peñas Blancas and the Collado del Alguacil (sections at 20%).
- A long, flat 32km time trial in the final week.
The final in Andalusia, with a third of the competition in this region, will culminate in Granada, in front of the majestic Alhambra – an unprecedented historical setting to crown the winner.
Who will succeed the 2025 winner?
For now, no clear favorite has been confirmed. Tadej Pogačar, Remco Evenepoel, and Jonas Vingegaard might prioritize the World Championships. But Primoz Roglič is aiming for a record fifth title, and João Almeida (2nd in 2025) and Mattias Skjelmose will also be there. As is often the case, the Vuelta will also welcome riders looking to redeem themselves after a difficult Tour de France.
Image and more information: lavuelta.es
