Riders of the 2026 Vuelta a España

After years of speculation, Pogačar finally makes his Vuelta debut. The reigning world champion wants to prove he can bend the third Grand Tour to his will too.

Consistent, disciplined and in top shape. Almeida has grown into one of the peloton's most reliable GC riders in recent years.

A four-time Vuelta winner with the best credentials in the field. A fifth title would leave him alone at the top of the record books.

With this Vuelta's longest time trial on the route, Evenepoel is an obvious favourite. His power against the clock could be decisive in the third week.

Already a multiple-time Vuelta podium finisher, always roared on by an ecstatic home crowd. This year Mas wants that one final step up.

One of the finest pure climbers of his generation, still chasing that one big result on home soil. The brutal Andalusian mountain stages suit him perfectly.

Strong against the clock, strong in the mountains and unafraid to race from an early break. Jorgenson can profit from any scenario this Vuelta throws up.

The 2023 Vuelta winner, now Roglič's key lieutenant — with the freedom to race for himself if the opportunity arises.

Young, strong and ready to win a Grand Tour. Rodríguez races his home tour with the weight of a nation on his shoulders.

Fast, versatile and a points-classification specialist. Groves survives the hilly days and still wins the bunch sprints.