Alberto Contador Sends Shockwaves Through Cycling by Downplaying Vuelta a España in Favor of the Giro d’Italia
The cycling world has been left reeling after Spanish legend Alberto Contador made a series of stunning remarks on live television, openly downplaying the prestige of his home Grand Tour, the Vuelta a España, while showering the Giro d’Italia with the kind of praise rarely heard from a rider of his stature. Speaking with the confidence of a man who has conquered all three Grand Tours, Contador declared that the Giro was “the most beautiful race in the world” and went as far as to claim that “anyone who has participated in it will forget everything else.” The comments have not only ignited a firestorm among fans in Spain but have also fueled fresh speculation about the shifting priorities of elite riders on the international stage.
Contador, a two-time Vuelta winner and one of the most decorated cyclists in modern history, did not hold back. He spoke with a sense of conviction that made it clear this was not a passing opinion, but rather a deeply held belief shaped by years of competing at the very highest level. His words landed with particular weight because of his unique position: as a Spaniard, his loyalty to the Vuelta has always been assumed, and his victories in the race have made him an icon of Spanish cycling. Yet here he was, live on air, seemingly placing the Giro above his homeland’s marquee event.
The reaction was immediate and intense. Social media erupted within minutes of his remarks, with Spanish fans expressing disbelief and, in some cases, outright anger. Many felt betrayed that a national hero would publicly diminish the race that has given him so much. Others, however, applauded his honesty, pointing out that the Giro’s route, atmosphere, and unpredictable weather often deliver a kind of drama and beauty that the Vuelta has struggled to match in recent years.
Contador’s praise for the Giro was not limited to vague compliments. He spoke in vivid detail about the stunning mountain passes, the raw passion of Italian crowds, and the unpredictable nature of the race that makes every stage feel like a battle. He contrasted this with the Vuelta, which he suggested has become more predictable in terms of racing dynamics and less appealing for some of the sport’s top names. He even hinted, without naming names, that “many riders” in the peloton are quietly opting for the Giro over the Vuelta when they have to make a choice.
If true, this trend could have significant implications for the cycling calendar and the distribution of talent across the season. The Giro, traditionally held in May, has often been overshadowed by the Tour de France in July, while the Vuelta, staged in late summer, has served as a showcase for riders who missed out on earlier successes or are building form for the World Championships. But if the Giro is now becoming the preferred stage for top contenders, the Vuelta may face an uphill battle in maintaining its status as one of the sport’s three crown jewels.
Former riders and current commentators have weighed in, with opinions sharply divided. Some agree with Contador’s assessment, arguing that the Giro’s blend of history, scenery, and racing unpredictability sets it apart. Others insist that each Grand Tour has its own unique identity and that ranking them is an unnecessary and divisive exercise. For race organizers in Spain, however, the comments are more than just controversial—they are a direct challenge to their ability to attract the world’s best riders and to inspire a passionate fan base at home.
For now, Contador remains unapologetic, standing by his belief that the Giro reigns supreme. Whether his comments will spark actual changes in rider participation remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Spanish legend has once again proven that even in retirement, he still knows how to make headlines and shake the foundations of professional cycling.
