Cian Uijtdebroeks to make Tour de France debut next year

Cian Uijtdebroeks recently mentioned the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España as possible options for 2026. A first participation in the Tour de France seemed less likely, but appearances can be deceiving: the Belgian will make his debut in the French Grand Tour next year representing his new team Movistar.

Earlier this month, Uijtdebroeks spoke with the Spanish sports newspaper Marca about the upcoming cycling season, and the 22-year-old climber revealed that he will race either the Giro d'Italia or the Vuelta a España in 2026. "We have already talked a lot about it," said Uijtdebroeks, who is switching this winter from Visma | Lease a Bike to Movistar, discussing his program for the coming season.

"I will race the Ardennes Classics. After that, we will choose between the Giro and the Vuelta. The Vuelta is incredibly tough and I really enjoy that race, but the Giro also appeals to me. It’s the first Grand Tour of the year and starting early motivates me." In the interview with Marca, Uijtdebroeks did not comment on possible participation in the Tour de France.

However, on Thursday, during Movistar’s team presentation, he was very clear on stage. "I will make my Tour de France debut next year. It’s the first time and I really want to get the most out of it," said an ambitious Uijtdebroeks.

Basque Country and Ardennes Classics
The promising GC contender is not only focusing on the three-week race through France in 2026. He also highlighted other races. "The Tour of the Basque Country is a very important race; I really want to perform at the highest level there, just like in the Ardennes Classics."