La Vuelta Director Commits to Andorra Return in 2027 or 2028 After Pogačar Stage Win

Javier Guillén, director of La Vuelta a España, has reiterated the race's strong bond with Andorra following Tadej Pogačar's commanding win in the fully Andorran fourth stage on Tuesday, committing to a men's return in 2028 if 2027 proves unfeasible.

Speaking at the finish in Andorra la Vella, Guillén called the stage "absolutely perfect" and praised the Principality's mountain roads for their consistent quality. He stressed that "La Vuelta has a need to be in Andorra," confirming the event's return "if not in 2027, then it has to be in 2028." The decision hinges on next year's route, which points away from the Pyrenees, making inclusion geographically challenging.

Tourism and Commerce Minister Jordi Torres acknowledged the 2027 difficulties but emphasised the strategic value of hosting the race, marking its 25th appearance in Andorra. "Every time we can have La Vuelta, we must make it happen," he said. Torres highlighted cycling as a national priority, aiming for full stages and rest days alongside finishes, while noting even the women's edition could fit if routes allow.

Pogačar sealed the victory with a solo attack at Beixalís, 50.5km from the line, building a 1:35 lead at the summit and finishing 3:08 ahead of Primož Roglič, Felix Gall, Oscar Onley, Enric Mas and Sepp Kuss at Coll d'Ordino. The Slovenian, already a stage winner here in 2019, described Andorra as "a wonderful place" with some of his best career memories, crediting a long, well-managed effort. Guillén ranked the performance among the Vuelta's historic greats.

Torres pointed to Andorra's cycling hub status, with over 130 UCI riders based there and 37 participants in this edition. Despite traffic disruptions from the Andorra la Vella start and finish, he said the global exposure justified it. Guillén affirmed ongoing contact with authorities, ensuring the pause is temporary rather than a break. He also voiced support for a women's stage soon, citing terrain and government backing, though constrained by the seven-day format.