Just days after the unveiling of the 2026 Tour de France route, the organisers of the Vuelta a Espana have officially confirmed that next year’s edition will begin in Monaco, marking yet another foreign start for Spain’s Grand Tour.
The 81st edition of the race will open with a 9.6km individual time trial around the Principality on 22 August 2026, bringing a touch of glamour and spectacle to La Vuelta’s Grand Départ. The announcement was made in Monte Carlo, with race director Javier Guillen joined by Prince Albert II of Monaco and the Principality’s Minister of State Christophe Mirmand.
A growing international tradition
Monaco will become the latest overseas host city to open La Vuelta, following previous departures in Turin (2025), Lisbon (2024) and Utrecht (2022) — underlining the race’s growing ambition to reach international audiences.
While the full route will not be revealed until 17 December, organisers expect the first two road stages to take place in France before the race crosses the Pyrenees and enters Spanish territory.
“Monaco gives us the opportunity to make history”
Speaking to Marca, Guillen said: “Monaco gives us the opportunity to make a dream come true and to make La Vuelta part of history. Starting from Piedmont this year and from Monaco next year helps reaffirm La Vuelta as one of the most important sporting events in the world. Cycling is a wonderful sport that not only brings joy to those who watch or practise it, but also connects territories and unites two nations with a rich history through the bicycle.”
Prince Albert added that the project carries both pride and prestige for the Principality: “We wanted to create a small ‘Tour of Monaco’ before heading into France. We’re going to become the only city to have hosted the start of all three Grand Tours — it’s a great satisfaction, an honour, and also a responsibility.”
The 2026 Vuelta a Espana is expected to continue the event’s growing globalisation, with its Monaco start offering one of the most scenic and prestigious openings in the race’s history. More details on the early stages and full route will follow in December.