Five riders to watch for Itzulia 2026 beyond the favourites

Johannes Kulset is currently building towards the Giro d’Italia, where he is set to target a general classification for the first time after riding the Tour de France in 2024. As a result, he arrives at Itzulia deep into his preparation, having just completed a month at altitude.

The Basque terrain sits perfectly between punchy efforts and pure climbing, which suits Kulset well. He is not the most explosive rider, but combines solid punch with strong climbing ability, particularly on efforts between ten and twenty minutes. Those are exactly the kind of climbs that define this race.

Ion Izagirre is racing the final season of his career, making this edition of Itzulia particularly significant. A rider of immense experience and resilience, he remains one of the peloton’s most respected figures.

His victory on stage 12 of the 2023 Tour de France is a perfect example of his qualities. Dropped on the penultimate climb, he fought his way back before attacking on the final ascent to win solo. It reflects his defining trait: an engine that often improves as races go on.

Racing on home roads, Izagirre will be highly motivated to perform. His knowledge of the terrain, especially the technical descents, could prove a decisive advantage.

Clément Braz Afonso is one of the more exciting young prospects in the race. Last season was his first at professional level, and he immediately stepped up to ride the Vuelta a España.

He showed promise there, coming close to a top result before a puncture denied him a potential top-three finish on stage 16. His climbing style and posture make him particularly suited to the steep gradients that define Itzulia.

Luca Vergallito came through the Zwift Academy in 2022, earning a place with the Alpecin-Deceuninck development team the following year. His progression was quick, leading to a professional contract.

His development has been steady, although interrupted at times by physical issues. With those now seemingly behind him, this race could mark another step forward.

The name Beloki carries weight in cycling. Markel is the son of Joseba Beloki, a three-time Tour de France podium finisher whose career was cut short by a heavy crash.

Markel, a Basque rider himself, will be particularly motivated on home roads. Last year, he impressed at the Vuelta a España as a 20-year-old, and that experience often marks a turning point for young riders. It remains to be seen what type of rider he will become, but this terrain looks well suited for him to make an impact.