Enric Mas clinches the Vuelta a España title in Granada, holding off late moves from rivals. The final stage doubles as a send-off for retiring riders and a showcase for Movistar's teamwork.
Enric Mas finished first overall at the Vuelta a España, crossing the line in Granada after a stage packed with attacks and tension. Movistar, wearing a special kit for the occasion, kept Mas in control as rivals tried to break his lead on the climbs near the Alhambra.
With 8 kilometers to go, Pello Bilbao launched a solo attack, splitting the front group and gaining over a minute on the main favorites. Bilbao, along with Brennan and Van Aert, pushed the pace, but the peloton couldn't close the gap. Despite the late action, the overall standings stayed the same, with Mas's steady performance throughout the race making the difference.
Before the final stage, Enric Mas led the general classification by 2 minutes and 15 seconds over Primož Roglič, a gap widely considered insurmountable by leading sports outlets.
The last stage was more than a race for time. Five riders ended their grand tour careers in Granada, drawing applause from fans along the route. The city turned into a cycling festival, with crowds lining the streets and Movistar at the center of the celebrations.
The course in Granada included four climbs to the Alhambra, testing every rider. Attacks came one after another in the final kilometers, but Movistar's tactics kept Mas safe. The team's discipline and Mas's consistency echoed the chaos and strategy of the previous stage.
According to BBC Sports, the 112-kilometer final stage around Granada was designed to be both ceremonial and challenging, with a route that included multiple climbs to the Alhambra and a finish at Paseo del Salón. Despite the potential for late attacks, most major outlets agreed that the overall podium was effectively decided before the start, with Mas, Roglič, and Gall occupying the top three spots.
For Spanish cycling, Mas's win is a proud moment. The Vuelta's finish in Granada, with its mix of competition and goodbyes, showed why the race remains a highlight of the season. Movistar's careful strategy and Mas's form left no doubt about who controlled this year's race. As the event ends, the 2026 Vuelta a España stands out for its dramatic final stage and a champion who delivered under pressure.
