The 2026 Grand Tours GC contenders - Who is targeting which race?

Will he complete his Grand Tour set? That’s the big 2026 question for Jonas Vingegaard. And it will bring a rematch with João Almeida after their Vuelta duel this year, even if neither was quite at their best.

Other riders to watch are Red Bull’s duo Giulio Pellizzari and former Giro winner Jai Hindley, who could move into contention if they take a step forward. And Richard Carapaz is still a rider who can never be discounted.

That matters, because with Vingegaard now confirmed for the Giro, managing his effort there becomes the key to what happens in July. The ideal scenario is to win in Italy as economically as possible, then arrive in July at full strength for another showdown with Pogačar.

> Giro d'Italia 2026 route

After the Giro appetizer, July brings the main course. With all the Aliens at the start Pogačar, Vingegaard and Evenepoel and two emerging powerhouses Red Bull and Lidl-Trek going all-in on Le Grand Boucle, the ingredients are there for three spectacular weeks. 

The only caveat is how much real suspense we will get, judging by the last two editions where Tadej Pogačar was dominant, and the fact that a potential Giro detour for Vingegaard would hardly maximise his chances of arriving as the very best version of himself.

> Tour de France 2026 route

When it comes to planning, the Vuelta is always the odd one out. While the Giro and Tour are typically the first races pencilled in for the men’s GC contenders, the Vuelta often ends up as the final Grand Tour of the year, a chance to salvage a season when earlier goals fall short or injuries derail the original plan.

Even so, 2026 already has a marquee showdown on the calendar. Four time winner Primož Roglič will try to move past Roberto Heras with a fifth Vuelta victory, but he will have to fend off João Almeida, who finished second this year behind Jonas Vingegaard.

> Vuelta a España 2026 route