The Vuelta a España 2026 will start on August 22 with an opening time trial in Monaco. The riders will begin their individual chrono in the square in front of the famous Monaco casino, while the finish will be on the Albert I boulevard. This boulevard is also the annual finish location of the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
It has been known since May that the Vuelta a España 2026 would begin in Monaco, but on Saturday the organizers, together with Prince Albert II of Monaco, presented the route for the opening stage.
In a 9.6-kilometer circuit, all the landmarks of the wealthy microstate will be passed. Besides the start in front of the famous casino, the race will go through the renowned tunnel, the riders will pass the famous harbor (Port Hercule), and circle around the Stade Louis II football stadium. As mentioned, the finish will be on the Albert I boulevard.
The entire opening time trial will thus take place on Monegasque territory. On day two of the grand tour, only the start will be located in the Principality.
Experience with major sporting events
Monaco has plenty of experience organizing major international sporting events. Each year, F1 drivers gather in the Principality for the famous Monaco Grand Prix. In cycling, Monaco already hosted the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in 2009.
In 2024, the Tour paid another visit to the microstate: the final time trial of the French race started in Monaco. It was Tadej Pogacar who was fastest between Monaco and Nice and secured the overall victory.
