Updated on August 28, 2025
On 22 August 2026, the Principality will host the Grand Départ of the Vuelta, confirming its status as a legendary sporting destination. A spectacular time trial will kick off the competition from Monte-Carlo's Place du Casino, followed by a second stage linking the Prince's Palace to Manosque.
Monaco, sporting capital and international showcase
Used to hosting prestigious events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Rally, the Principality is preparing to write a new chapter in its history with the Tour of Spain. After launching in Turin in 2025, the Vuelta will move to Monaco in 2026, offering spectators a unique sporting event in the heart of summer.
A Grand Départ rooted in iconic locations
The programme for this launch has already been drawn up: a time trial of around 15 kilometres, entirely on the streets of Monaco, with a starting ramp installed in front of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, followed by a second stage starting from the Prince's Palace and heading towards Manosque. These two powerful symbols of the Principality will provide an exceptional showcase for world cycling.
The legacy of Monegasque cycling
The 2026 Vuelta is part of a long-standing sporting tradition. In 2009, the Grand Départ of the Tour de France marked a turning point and inspired a new generation of cyclists in the Principality. Today, Monegasque riders such as Victor Langellotti and Antoine Berlin embody this inspired generation. Their presence, combined with the attractiveness of the region, confirms Monaco's role as a welcoming destination for cycling.
A magnet for champions from around the world
Nearly fifty professional cyclists have chosen to live in Monaco, attracted by its terrain, climate and proximity to a major international airport. Seeing champions such as Tadej Pogacar and Primoz Roglic on local roads has become a familiar sight. This unique daily life fuels young people's passion and reinforces Monaco's image as a global cycling hub.
A springboard for young people
Beyond prestige, the aim is also to encourage the next generation. An academy project is in the pipeline to support young talent and offer them guidance tailored to a professional career. In a country with fewer than 10,000 Monegasques, the presence of two professionals and such a dynamic ecosystem is already a remarkable achievement.
Au-delà du prestige, l’objectif est aussi d’encourager la relève. Un projet d’académie est en préparation pour accompagner les jeunes talents et leur offrir un encadrement adapté à une carrière professionnelle. Dans un pays qui compte moins de 10 000 Monégasques, la présence de deux professionnels et d’un écosystème aussi dynamique relève déjà de l’exploit.
Experience Monte Carlo during the Vuelta
Hosting the start of the 2026 Tour of Spain will give visitors the opportunity to experience the excitement of a major sporting event while enjoying the Monegasque art of living. Around the Place du Casino, iconic restaurants such as the Café de Paris Monte-Carlo and the Buddha-Bar Monte-Carlo invite guests to prolong the festivities with a convivial and refined gastronomic experience.
You might also like…
Papal Visit to Monaco on March 28: A Historic Occasion
Monaco is preparing to welcome Pope Leo XIV for an apostolic visit on Saturday, March 28.
According to the Princely Palace, this visit represents “a historic occasion for Monaco” and “a powerful sign of hope", reflecting the enduring ties that have long united the Grimaldi dynasty with the Successors of Saint Peter.
In a State where Catholicism is enshrined in the Constitution, the visit also reaffirms a heritage described by the Palace as “a fundamental pillar of its identity, its unity, and the continuity of its institutions.”
7 things you didn't know about Villa La Vigie
Famous for having been Karl Lagerfeld's residence, discover this "confidential jewel" and let us reveal a few of its secrets...
Why does the Rose Ball continue leave us spellbound?
Monaco's leading charity event has lost none of its glamour. With its roster of stars, major artists and unique live entertainment, the Rose Ball continues to dazzle guests almost 70 years on!
