Tour de France
The 2026 Tour de France starts in Barcelona, Spain for the first time in history, featuring 21 stages over 23 days covering approximately 3,333km. The Grand Départ begins with a team time trial up Montjuïc, followed by three stages in Catalonia before crossing into France. The race features eight mountain stages including summit finishes at iconic climbs, two individual time trials, and rest days in key positions. The third week features a demanding finale through the Alps with classic climbs including Mont Ventoux and the Galibier region.
Where to watch
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The route, day by day
QUEEN
Who to watch & what to watch for
Top Starters
Jerseys
Fight for the overall
Narratives to watch
- Barcelona Grand Départ brings Spanish crowds and a historic first for Catalunya
- Third week Alps gauntlet: Mont Ventoux, Galibier, and Alpe d'Huez in final 5 stages
- Two time trials (TTT + ITT) create significant time gaps for TT specialists
- Can the yellow jersey survive three consecutive mountain stages before Paris?
- New generation of GC riders challenging established order
Form book & lore
The Tour de France is cycling's most prestigious race, first held in 1903. This will be the first Grand Départ from Barcelona. Previous Spanish starts have come from Bilbao (2023) and San Sebastian. The race has shaped legends from Coppi and Merckx to Indurain and modern champions. The yellow jersey (maillot jaune) has been the symbol of race leadership since 1919.
When to tune in
The TTT opener will set early time gaps between teams. First mountain summit finish creates initial GC selection. Watch for the first rest day as recovery point before the second major mountain block. The final week's consecutive mountain stages (Ventoux, Alps) typically decide the race. Paris finale is traditionally processional until the Champs-Élysées sprints.