The 2026 Vuelta a España has reached its conclusion in Granada, three weeks after the 81st edition began with its Grand Départ in Monaco…
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II travelled to the Andalusian city for Sunday’s finale, where Spaniard Enric Mas was crowned overall winner on home soil. The race had begun in the Principality with a prologue followed by a ceremonial departure from the Prince’s Palace.
Reflecting on Monaco’s role, HSH Prince Albert II described the Grand Départ as a major success, with around 30,000 spectators lining the streets during the opening weekend. He also highlighted the symbolism of a race beginning at the Prince’s Palace and concluding beneath Granada’s Alhambra.
The final stage provided a dramatic conclusion, with riders tackling the climb towards the Alhambra four times as large crowds gathered in the city.
Vuelta deputy director Charles Ojalvo praised Monaco’s organisation, saying a strong opening had helped set the tone for three weeks of racing and contributed to a successful edition.
Attention is already turning to what could come next for cycling in the Principality. Prince Albert suggested Monaco could one day become involved in staging a world championship, although he stressed that any potential project would not involve Monaco alone.
Next year, the Vuelta will return to Spain for a Grand Départ from Santiago de Compostela.
Image: Prince’s Palace Instagram