Prince Albert II attended the official presentation of La Vuelta a España 2026 on December 17th at the Sporting Monte-Carlo, with the Principality set to host the first two stages of the prestigious cycling race next August.
The grand tour will begin with a 9km time trial through Monaco on August 22nd, followed by a second stage on August 23rd, which will see riders depart Monaco for a 215km hilly stage to Manosque in France. This marks the third time La Vuelta has started from a foreign country.
The race, which will cover 3,275km over 21 stages, will conclude in Granada on September 13th.
During his address, the Prince highlighted Monaco’s commitment to international sporting events alongside sporting development. “Beyond the international competitions organised here – the F1 Grand Prix, the tennis Masters, and the Herculis athletics meeting among others – the Principality actively develops a proactive policy for sports practice, both in schools and clubs,” he said.
He noted that Monaco currently has more than 5,500 sports licences across 190 clubs and 51 federations, highlighting the country’s dedication to sport at all levels.
“Hosting la Vuelta, a competition with global reach and impact, is much more than a celebration of sport,” Prince Albert added. “It’s a symbol of openness and international outreach for my country.”
Athletes as role models for youth
However, he also stressed the broader importance of sporting, stating his conviction that the values carried by sport are “crucial in the construction and shaping of personality.” He called on athletes to serve as role models for youth by promoting fair play and respect.
Four time Tour de France winner Chris Froome also attended the presentation and spoke warmly of the race. “It’s a special race for me,” said the cyclist, who was recently hospitalised. He described the Vuelta as “more brutal” than the Tour de France but with less pressure.
Javier Guillén, general director of La Vuelta, was present as well, presiding over the presentation.
La Vuelta 2026 will cover 3,275km over 21 stages, featuring seven mountain-top finished and priming to be one of the most challenging editions yet.
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Main photo credit of Prince Albert II during his speech: Monaco Life