Pogacar to ride Vuelta a España from Monaco grand départ
By Zak Jackson, MonacoViews Editorial
Tadej Pogacar will start the 2026 Vuelta a España from Monaco, returning to the race where he first made his name in 2019.
Fresh from a fifth Tour de France title in July, Tadej Pogacar has confirmed he will line up for the Vuelta a España, with the race's grand départ set to leave from Monaco at the end of August.
The Vuelta holds particular significance for the Slovenian rider. It was his breakthrough race in 2019, and it remains the one Grand Tour missing from an already extraordinary palmarès. A win in Spain would complete cycling's triple crown of Grand Tours for Pogacar, who is widely regarded as the dominant force in the sport.
For Monaco, hosting the start of one of cycling's three major stage races is a considerable moment. The Principality has long been a base for professional cycling teams and riders, and a Grand Tour departure from the Port Hercule area will bring significant international attention to the streets residents know well. Exact stage details and route specifics for the Monaco start are expected to be confirmed closer to the race date.