Get ready for an epic battle as Remco Evenepoel and Isaac del Toro go head-to-head in the UAE Tour 2026! This highly anticipated race promises to be a thrilling spectacle, and we've got all the details you need to know.
The UAE Tour: A Rising Star in Cycling
The UAE Tour, a relatively young race established in 2019, has quickly gained prominence on the cycling calendar. With its unique blend of flat stages, hot weather, and a prestigious World Tour status, it has become a magnet for top cyclists. From the very first edition, where Primoz Roglic and Alejandro Valverde battled it out, to the consecutive victories of Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel, this race has delivered exciting moments.
But here's where it gets controversial... the 2026 edition introduces some significant changes to the route, which could shake up the traditional power dynamics.
Stage-by-Stage Breakdown: A Journey Through the UAE
Stage 1: Madinat Zayed Majils to Liwa Palace (144 km) - The race kicks off with a flat stage, offering sprinters their first chance to shine. However, beware of the desert winds that can cause chaos! The finale at Liwa Palace promises an uphill sprint, testing riders' ability to sustain a strong effort.
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Stage 3: Umm al Quwain to Jebel Mobrah (183 km) - This stage introduces a new summit finish at Jebel Mobrah, replacing the familiar Jebel Jais. Prepare for a brutal climb with gradients reaching close to 20% in some sections!
Stage 4: Fujairah to Fujairah (182 km) - A hilly stage, a rarity for the UAE Tour, could see some exciting breakaway attempts or sprinters struggling to keep up.
Stage 5: Dubai Al Manzar Park to Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (166 km) - A pan-flat stage that will end in a bunch sprint, with the finale featuring two right-hand corners that will test riders' positioning and timing.
Stage 6: Al Ain Museum to Jebel Hafeet (168 km) - The famous Jebel Hafeet climb, where previous editions have been decided, takes center stage once again. A challenging climb with inconsistent gradients, it often proves more difficult than the profile suggests.
Stage 7: Zayed National Museum to Abu Dhabi Breakwater (149 km) - The race concludes with another pan-flat stage, ending in a bunch sprint. A straightforward stage, it will be a test of endurance and tactics.
The Favorites: Evenepoel vs. del Toro
Remco Evenepoel, the Olympic champion, is the clear favorite to win. While the new route may not suit him as well, with Jebel Mobrah potentially creating massive gaps, his climbing prowess and lightweight frame give him an edge. Expect him to dominate the time trial and be a force to be reckoned with in crosswind conditions.
Isaac del Toro, in the absence of Jonas Vingegaard, emerges as Evenepoel's biggest competitor. With a strong team backing him, including Adam Yates, del Toro could put up a formidable challenge. His form will be crucial, but even if he doesn't have the best debut, he's a rider not to be underestimated.
Other Contenders and Sprinters
Bahrain - Victorious brings a strong team with Antonio Tiberi leading, supported by Damiano Caruso and Afonso Eulálio. Lennert van Eetvelt, a former race winner, aims to make a comeback. Derek Gee, making his debut for Lidl-Trek, could surprise with a podium finish. Michael Storer, a threat in the mountains, and Felix Gall, a pure climber, add to the mix.
In the sprint category, Jonathan Milan is favored with Tim Merlier and Olav Kooij absent due to illness and injury. He'll face challenges from Juan Sebastián Molano, Sam Welsford, and Alberto Dainese.
Prediction: UAE Tour 2026 Overall Classification
**Remco Evenepoel, Isaac del Toro*
Antonio Tiberi, Michael Storer, Felix Gall, Derek Gee
Afonso Eulálio, Damiano Caruso, Tobias Johannessen, Harold Tejada, Georg Steinhauser, Lennert van Eetvelt, Ben Tulett, Ilan van Wilder, Adam Yates, Pablo Castrillo, Nairo Quintana
Our pick for the win? Remco Evenepoel, but with the new route, anything could happen!
Original: Rúben Silva
