Itzulia Basque Country 2026 - News
06.04-11.04
The 2026 Itzulia Basque Country takes place from 6 to 11 April and remains one of the key stage races of the spring calendar. Known for its relentless climbing and technical Basque roads, the race favours explosive climbers and versatile GC riders building towards the Ardennes and Grand Tours. João Almeida won the 2025 edition, ahead of Enric Mas and Max Schachmann.
How to watch?
Curious about how to watch the 2026 Volta a Catalunya? Discover it in our complete Itzulia Basque Country TV guide, featuring a full overview of all broadcasters and streaming options.
The route
The 2026 Itzulia Basque Country delivers a demanding and explosive route that blends time trial precision with relentless climbing. The race opens in Bilbao with a short but decisive individual time trial, featuring an early climb and a steep finish that will already create gaps in the GC.
Stages 2 and 3, starting from Pamplona and around Basauri, are challenging yet unpredictable, offering opportunities for breakaways on rolling terrain with significant elevation gain.
The intensity rises in Stage 4 near Galdakao, where multiple climbs and an uphill finish set the stage for attacks. The queen stage in Eibar is the decisive battleground, packed with climbs and designed for aggressive racing.
A short but brutal final stage ensures a dramatic conclusion, with constant climbing likely to decide the overall winner in the closing kilometres.
Explore the full route in our stage-by-stage guide.
The favourites
A deep and competitive GC field lines up this year, headlined by Isaac del Toro, while Paul Seixas enters as one of the most exciting emerging names after a string of strong performances. Primož Roglič brings experience and leadership, and Juan Ayuso remains a key contender if fully fit.
There is depth across the field, with Mattias Skjelmose and Antonio Tiberi both capable of consistency, while Pello Bilbao adds valuable knowledge of the terrain.
Further options come from Matthew Riccitello and Christian Scaroni, with Tobias Halland Johannessen another rider in form. Mikel Landa and Ilan Van Wilder also look well placed for strong overall finishes.
Read more about the contenders in our preview and explore the start list via this link.
