Tadej Pogacar Confirms Vuelta a Espana 2026 Entry to Pursue Grand Tour Treble

Tadej Pogacar has confirmed his participation in the Vuelta a Espana 2026, beginning August 22 in Monaco, as he pursues an historic feat of winning all three Grand Tours within a single season. The Slovenian cyclist, already a five-time Tour de France champion and 2024 Giro d'Italia victor, would become only the ninth rider to achieve this rare cycling milestone if victorious in Spain.

The Historic Pursuit

Pogacar's decision marks a significant shift from modern cycling trends, where elite competitors often prioritise the Tour de France over the Vuelta and Giro. Only eight riders have previously won all three Grand Tours, a list that includes cycling legends Eddy Merckx, Jacques Anquetil, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain. Jonas Vingegaard recently joined this exclusive group after completing the treble.

The 27-year-old finished third at the Vuelta in 2019 during his maiden Grand Tour appearance, winning three stages and the best young rider classification as a relative unknown. That experience has remained with him, with Pogacar stating that returning to Spain felt like the appropriate moment in his career.

Race Details and Schedule

The 2026 Vuelta spans three weeks across 21 stages, concluding in Granada on September 13. The route features eight mountain stages and over 40 kilometres of individual time trials, beginning with a time trial in Monaco before traversing Andorra, the Mediterranean coast, and southern cities including Cordoba, Malaga, and Seville. Pogacar's strong form entering the competition is evident; he has won six of seven World Tour races this year and showed no signs of fatigue following his Tour de France victory.

Immediately after the Vuelta concludes, Pogacar plans to defend his Road World Championships rainbow jersey in Montreal, Canada, maintaining an ambitious schedule through the remainder of the calendar year. His team, UAE Team Emirates, has confirmed their support for the campaign.