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Presented this 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 m of positive elevation gain, seven summit finishes, and a route concentrated in southern Spain, this 81st Vuelta (from August 22 to September 13) promises an intense spectacle for climbers, often under crushing 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 in 1966 and the Tour de France in 2009), will launch the race with a 9 km 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 entry into the mountains.
The fourth stage, entirely in Andorra (104 km), promises to be hellish with the mythical Port d’Envalira (28 km at 5%, culminating at 2,400 m) right from the start.
A Relentless Mountain Menu
Gone are the classic northern passes like Angliru or the Lakes of Covadonga: 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 include:
- Summit finish at 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 Collado del Alguacil (sections at 20%).
- A long, flat 32 km individual time trial in the final week.
The finale in Andalusia, with a third of the race 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 major favorite is confirmed. Tadej Pogačar, Remco Evenepoel, and Jonas Vingegaard might prioritize the World Championships. But Primoz Roglič is aiming for a record fifth title, João Almeida (2nd in 2025) or Mattias Skjelmose will be there. As often, the Vuelta will also welcome riders seeking redemption after a difficult Tour de France.
Image and more info: lavuelta.es
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