Valverde at 46… and that Giro stage 10 years on

Alejandro Valverde continues to spark emotion even four years after retirement, which brought the curtain down on a two-decade career at the highest level. Today, between his new roles as Spanish national team coach and tourism ambassador for the Region of Murcia, his day-to-day isn’t all that different from before: “I still like to get out on the bike and train with the group, just with a more relaxed approach. Every now and then I also pin on a number in some gravel or MTB races, where it’s all about enjoying the ride and the people.”

World road champion in Innsbruck 2018 and a rider with 133 pro wins, Valverde – who turns 46 this Saturday – keeps a special memory of his only Giro d’Italia, raced in 2016: “It’s true, I debuted late, but it’s a race that really excited me. I truly enjoyed it, both for the route and the warmth of the Italian fans. It’s an incredibly tough race, but absolutely worth it.”

Andalo, the perfect day

The 2026 Giro d’Italia will return to Andalo (Stage 17, Wednesday 27 May), the scene of the Spaniard’s win in his only appearance. “It was a short stage, with two climbs, the last one close to the finish. I knew it could suit me. I arrived together with Steven Kruijswijk, who was in the Maglia Rosa and going really strong, and I managed to beat him in the sprint. It was a beautiful day, also because it allowed me to take at least one stage win in all three Grand Tours.”

In that edition, Valverde also came close to the overall: “Vincenzo Nibali made up a lot of ground in the final mountain stages, and in the end both I and Esteban Chaves finished very close. It was a great Giro – we gave it everything, full gas every day. I have no regrets.”

Alejandro Valverde’s favourites for the 2026 Giro d’Italia

Looking ahead to the next edition, Valverde aligns with the general consensus: “The main favourite looks to be Jonas Vingegaard, who’s been very strong this season, winning Paris–Nice and Catalunya. The level will be extremely high anyway – riders like João Almeida or Giulio Pellizzari can be up there fighting for a big GC result. But it’s hard to pick anyone other than Vingegaard.”

A look as well at the Spanish riders: “Mikel Landa’s crash in the Basque Country could complicate things, but I hope he can get to the start in good condition – it’s a race that suits him really well. As for Enric Mas, on his debut, I think the Giro could fit his characteristics. He’s a very consistent rider – hopefully he can show his full value in the mountains.”