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Mas Clinches Fifth Vuelta for Movistar After Pogačar's Exit
16 Sep
Summary
- Enric Mas secured his first Grand Tour victory at the 2026 Vuelta a España.
- Movistar Team celebrated their fifth Vuelta title, their first since 2016.
- Spain's first victory in its home race since 2014 was achieved by Mas.
The 2026 Vuelta a España concluded with a surprising victory for Enric Mas of the Movistar team. This marks the fifth time the team, co-founded by Eusebio Unzué in 1980, has won their home Grand Tour, and their first since 2016. It is also the first time a Spanish rider has won the Vuelta since 2014. Mas's triumph came unexpectedly after a crash-out by pre-race favorite Tadej Pogačar.
Mas, who had previously made the podium four times without a win, experienced a significant career highlight at 31. He inherited the leader's jersey on stage 8 and solidified his position with strong performances on summit finishes and a career-best time trial on stage 18. This victory is a considerable boost for Mas, the Movistar team, and Spanish cycling.
Manager Eusebio Unzué reflected on the challenges, acknowledging Pogačar's strength but also the impact of misfortune. He highlighted Mas's consistent progress, noting his strong showings in Burgos leading up to the Vuelta. Unzué also expressed surprise at Mas's ability to handle the pressure of leadership, a challenge he had previously faced, and emphasized the team's strategic prowess throughout the race.
This win signifies a return to the top for a team with a rich Grand Tour tradition, demonstrating that "old rock'n'rollers never die" in a sport increasingly dominated by a few global stars. Unzué believes this success will bolster Mas's confidence, securing his position as a top contender for at least the next two to three years.
