The world of professional cycling descended on Casino Square on Thursday evening as the 23 teams contesting La Vuelta 2026 were officially presented ahead of this weekend’s historic Grand Départ from Monaco…
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II joined riders, organisers and personalities from across the Principality for the ceremony, which introduced the 184 competitors who will tackle the 81st edition of the Spanish Grand Tour. The Sovereign described the occasion as “a great moment” of “celebration, sharing and friendship”, while thanking the government departments, municipal services and organisers involved in bringing the race to Monaco.
Among the biggest names was Tadej Pogačar, who explained that starting from his adopted home had influenced his decision to compete. Describing Monaco as “paradise for cyclists”, the Slovenian said: “In my mind I wanted to go because the start is here in Monaco.”
For the home crowd, however, particular attention will be on Monaco’s Victor Langellotti, making his third Vuelta appearance. “I just wanted to give it my all and enjoy myself in front of the Monegasque public,” he said, adding that he hopes the Grand Départ will inspire more young people in Monaco to take up cycling.
Saturday’s opening stage is a fast and technical 9.4km individual time trial through the Principality, featuring 25 corners and beginning at 16:17.
The Vuelta then departs from Palace Square on Sunday for stage two towards Manosque, completing a landmark weekend that follows Monaco’s previous Grand Tour starts for the Giro d’Italia in 1966 and Tour de France in 2009.
Images: Stephane Danna