The UAE Tour 2026 is set to ignite the cycling world with a thrilling showdown between two giants: Remco Evenepoel and Isaac del Toro. This Middle Eastern adventure, taking place from February 16th to 22nd, promises to be a battle for the ages, but who will emerge victorious?
A Young Race with a Rich History:
The UAE Tour, a relatively new addition to the World Tour stage-race calendar, has quickly become a prestigious event. Born in 2019, it emerged from the success of its predecessors, the Abu Dhabi Tour and Dubai Tour. The region's financial prowess, warm February climate, and World Tour status have consistently attracted the sport's elite.
A Nation's Pride:
The growth of UAE Team Emirates - XRG has elevated the race's importance. In 2020, Adam Yates claimed victory, followed by two consecutive wins by Tadej Pogacar in 2021 and 2022. The 2023 edition crowned Remco Evenepoel, the then World Champion, as its winner. Lennert van Eetvelt and Tadej Pogacar secured their triumphs in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Stage 1: Sprinters' Paradise:
The tour kicks off with a 144-kilometer sprint stage from Madinat Zayed Majils to Liwa Palace. The flat terrain offers sprinters their first chance to shine, but crosswinds through the desert could create chaos. The final climb, a 1.4-kilometer stretch at 4%, favors those with sustained power.
Stage 2: Time Trial Showdown:
Day two features a 12.2-kilometer time trial on Hudayriryat Island. This stage will likely create small gaps in the overall classification before the climbing challenges ahead.
Stage 3: Mountainous Novelty:
The third stage introduces a new summit finish at Jebel Mobrah, replacing Jebel Jais. This stage is flat until the final ascent, which resembles the infamous Alto de l'Angliru. The final 6 kilometers average 12%, with gradients reaching a punishing 20%. A true test for pure climbers.
Stage 4: Hilly Adventure:
Stage 4 is a rarity in the UAE Tour, featuring a hilly course throughout. While not brutal, it includes an 8-kilometer climb at 4% and smaller ascents. A well-timed breakaway could surprise, or sprinters might struggle.
Stage 5: Desert Sprint:
Starting in Dubai, stage 5 ventures into the desert before returning to the city. The pan-flat terrain ensures a bunch sprint, with positioning crucial in the final two right-hand corners.
Stage 6: The Deciding Climb:
Stage 6, starting in Al Ain, includes the iconic Jebel Hafeet climb. This mountain stage has decided every previous edition and will play a crucial role again. The final climb, 10.6 kilometers at 6.9%, is deceptive, with steep sections and flat or downhill stretches. The exposed roads make it tougher than it seems.
Stage 7: Final Sprint:
The tour concludes in Abu Dhabi with a flat stage, likely ending in a bunch sprint. A calm 149-kilometer ride leads to the final sprint, with positioning key.
The Favorites:
Remco Evenepoel: The Olympic champion is the top favorite. While the new route, with Jebel Mobrah's challenging ascent, might reduce the time trial's impact, Evenepoel's climbing prowess and ability to handle steep gradients make him a formidable contender. His team support is adequate, and he's expected to excel in crosswinds.
Isaac del Toro: In the absence of Jonas Vingegaard, del Toro stands as Evenepoel's main rival. His performance depends on his form, but he could surprise with strong showings and potential stage wins. Don't underestimate his GC chances, especially with Adam Yates and a strong flat terrain team by his side.
Contenders: Bahrain - Victorious fields a strong team with Antonio Tiberi, Damiano Caruso, and Afonso Eulálio. Former winner Lennert van Eetvelt seeks a comeback, while Derek Gee aims for consistency. Michael Storer, a podium finisher at Il Lombardia, and pure climber Felix Gall are threats, despite potential time losses in the time trial and crosswinds.
GC Challengers: The GC battle extends to riders like Ilan van Wilder, Tobias Johannessen, Harold Tejada, Georg Steinhauser, Ben Tulett, William Lecerf Junior, David Gaudu, Pablo Castrillo, and Nairo Quintana, all capable of a Top 10 finish if they find their stride.
Other Notable Riders:
Beyond Evenepoel, British riders Joshua Tarling and Ethan Hayter could challenge in the time trial. The sprinter field is reduced due to illnesses and injuries, leaving Jonathan Milan as a favorite, contested by Juan Sebastián Molano, Sam Welsford, and Alberto Dainese.
Prediction:
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
Pick: Remco Evenepoel
Who do you think will conquer the UAE Tour 2026? Will Remco Evenepoel defend his title, or will Isaac del Toro rise to the occasion? Share your predictions and opinions in the comments below!
