Roglič chases a record, Pogačar makes his debut and Spain dreams of Enric Mas. These are the contenders for the 2026 red jersey.
Roglič chases a record fifth title
Primož Roglič has already won the Vuelta four times (2019, 2020, 2021, 2023) and, with his experience and climbing legs, is once again the logical favourite. A fifth win would leave him alone atop the modern record books.
Pogačar finally makes his debut
After years of speculation, Tadej Pogačar finally lines up for the Vuelta in 2026. The reigning world champion arrives with less Grand Tour rhythm than usual this season, but his presence alone makes this the most star-studded Vuelta startlist in years.
The chasers behind the duo
João Almeida and Remco Evenepoel add extra firepower, while Matteo Jorgenson and former winner Sepp Kuss show just how deep Visma and Red Bull-BORA are prepared to go. And then there's Enric Mas: already a multiple-time Vuelta podium finisher, always roared on by an ecstatic home crowd, and desperate for that one missing step.
The stages that will decide it
With the Andorra circuit stage already in the opening week, the sterrato on stage 6, and classics like Calar Alto and the Sierra de la Pandera, this route offers barely any rest. The Sierra Nevada on stage 20 will almost certainly be the last and decisive hurdle.
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