Precise route details for Monaco’s historic hosting of the 2026 Vuelta a España grand départ have been unveiled, revealing a spectacular course that will showcase the Principality’s most iconic landmarks across two opening stages.
Following the official announcement made at Monaco Yacht Club in May 2024, organisers have now confirmed that the world’s premier Spanish cycling race will begin with a 10-kilometre time trial on Saturday 22nd August, followed by a ceremonial stage start from the Palais Princier on Sunday 23rd August.
The individual time trial will take riders through Monaco’s architectural and cultural highlights, passing the Casino de Monte-Carlo, winding through the Fontvieille district, and along boulevard des Moulins before concluding at the Automobile Club de Monaco.
Sunday’s second stage will see the group of cyclists depart from the Palais Princier in what organisers describe as an ‘exceptional start’ before heading into France and towards the Spanish mainland for the remainder of the three-week race.
The 2026 grand départ marks a significant milestone for the Principality, making Monaco the first country ever to host the opening stages of all three cycling Grand Tours. This achievement adds to an impressive sporting record that includes the Giro d’Italia grand départ in 1968, the Tour de France start in 2009, and the final time trial connecting Monaco to Nice in the 2024 Tour de France.
Historic achievement for Monaco
The timing carries additional diplomatic significance, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of established relations between Monaco and Spain in 2026. This milestone provides additional meaning to what organisers hope will be the most spectacular grand départ in Vuelta history.
As Javier Guillén, General Director of La Vuelta, noted during the race’s recent 90th anniversary celebrations: “La Vuelta was born as a cycling race. However, today, 90 years later, it’s so much more than a sports competition.”
The Monaco time trial will likely prove crucial in establishing early time differences, with the principality’s challenging coastal terrain. At the same time, the 10-kilometre distance represents a significant test for general classification competitors, particularly given the Mediterranean heat typically experienced in late August.
With reigning champion Primož Roglič having equalled Roberto Heras’s record of four Vuelta victories in 2024, the Monaco opening weekend promises intense competition from the first pedal stroke.
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Photo: Javier Guillen General Director of La Vuelta, source: La Vuelta