Countdown
How many days until Vuelta a España (Start)?
🚴 Saturday, August 22, 2026
20 days until Vuelta a España (Start)
About Vuelta a España (Start)
The Vuelta a España is one of professional cycling's three Grand Tours, alongside the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. First held in 1935, the race takes place over three weeks and features the world's top cyclists competing across mountains, rolling terrain, individual time trials, and demanding summit finishes. The official start of the Vuelta a España marks the beginning of Spain's most prestigious cycling event and one of the highlights of the international cycling season. The Vuelta a España usually begins in late August, although the exact start date varies each year according to the race calendar. While most editions begin in Spain, organizers occasionally choose an international city for the Gran Salida (Grand Departure) before the race returns to Spanish roads. Each year's route is unique, showcasing different regions and often including some of Europe's most challenging mountain climbs. The opening stage features team presentations, ceremonial festivities, and the first competitive race that determines the initial overall leader. The rider leading the general classification earns the honor of wearing the iconic red jersey (La Roja), the symbol of race leadership. Millions of spectators line the route throughout Spain, while cycling fans around the world follow every stage through television and online coverage. A common misconception is that the Vuelta a España is simply a smaller version of the Tour de France. In reality, it is one of cycling's three Grand Tours with its own rich history, distinctive routes, and legendary mountain finishes. The Vuelta is renowned for its steep climbs, unpredictable racing, and dramatic battles for the overall title, making it one of the sport's premier annual events.
Quick facts
- The Vuelta a España is one of professional cycling's three Grand Tours.
- The race usually begins in late August and lasts about three weeks.
- The overall race leader wears the iconic red jersey (La Roja).
Frequently asked questions
- When does the Vuelta a España start?
- The Vuelta a España usually begins in late August, with the exact start date changing each year.
- What is the Vuelta a España?
- The Vuelta a España is Spain's premier professional cycling stage race and one of the three Grand Tours.
- Does the Vuelta a España always start in Spain?
- No. While most editions begin in Spain, the race occasionally starts in another country as part of the Gran Salida before returning to Spain.
Upcoming Vuelta a España (Start) dates
- Sat, Aug 22, 2026 (next)
- Sat, Aug 21, 2027
- Sat, Aug 19, 2028
- Sat, Aug 25, 2029
Dates on this page are checked against public calendar sources. Spot something wrong? Let us know.