La Vuelta 2026 Grand Départ set for Casino Square this Saturday
By Zak Jackson, MonacoViews Editorial
The Casino de Monte-Carlo will host the Grand Départ of La Vuelta 2026 on Saturday 22 August, with the Société des Bains de Mer having transformed the square for the occasion.
Casino Square takes centre stage this Saturday when La Vuelta 2026 rolls out of Monaco for its Grand Départ, with the Société des Bains de Mer having redesigned the famous plaza around the race's ceremonial start. The organisers have described the setup as "theatrical" in its conception, promising a spectacle befitting one of cycling's three Grand Tours.
For residents, the transformation of Place du Casino will mean significant access restrictions around the square and the surrounding streets on Saturday 22 August. The SBM has been closely involved in the staging, adapting the space to accommodate both the race infrastructure and the large crowds expected to line the route.
Monaco has a long association with high-profile motorsport and cycling events, but hosting the Grand Départ of a Grand Tour places the Principality alongside a short list of cities to have opened La Vuelta. With warm August weather forecast and the Casino as a backdrop, organisers are anticipating strong public turnout from both residents and visitors already in Monaco for the summer season.