The 2026 Volta a Catalunya consists of seven stages with progressively tougher pace. The first stage, starting and finishing in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, features a rolling coastal route: there are no major climbs, but constant changes in pace make it difficult to control the race. The finale favors a small group or endurance riders rather than pure sprinters.

The second stage, from Figueres to Banyoles, has a similar, but slightly more selective, hilly profile.

The third stage, from Mont-roig del Camp to Vila-seca, is the easiest of the entire race. The route is mostly flat and represents the only real opportunity for sprinters, with a highly likely sprint finish. Starting with the fourth stage, the race changes completely. From Mataró, the route reaches Vallter, with a climbing finish over 2,000 meters. The fifth stage, from La Seu d'Urgell to Coll de Pal, is the toughest of the race. It is a high-mountain stage with several long climbs and a significant elevation gain. The sixth stage, from Berga to Queralt, is shorter but still very intense. This stage also features a climb, but with more explosive characteristics. The final stage takes place in Barcelona on a city circuit that includes the Montjuïc climb, which must be repeated several times.

The main favourite for the victory is Jonas Vingegaard , because the course is very suited to his characteristics.

The most direct rival is Remco Evenepoel , who can suffer on the very long climbs compared to Vingegaard, but remains very dangerous especially if he manages to anticipate or gain time in the less difficult stages or in the final stage in Barcelona.

Another big name is João Almeida , the most consistent rider among the favorites. The Portuguese will be able to count on the help of Jay Vine and Brandon McNulty.

Among the outsiders, consider Enric Mas and Cian Uijtdebroeks of Movistar , consistent on long climbs, and Carlos Rodríguez and Oscar Onley of Ineos , young but already very competitive riders in stage races. Another duo, Felix Gall and Matthew Riccitello from Decathlon, should also be kept an eye out.

Finally, keep an eye out for more unpredictable riders like Tom Pidcock , who can make the difference on rough or technical stages, and Mikel Landa , who is always competitive when the going gets tough. Other names we feel like mentioning are Giulio Ciccone for Lidl Trek (which also features Mattias Skjelmose and Derek Gee West), Lorenzo Fortunato, Florian Lipowitz, and Lenny Martinez.

Sprint Cycling Photos