Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar has confirmed that he will ride in the Vuelta a España scheduled for late August 2026, meaning he will not be present at the Grand Prix events in Quebec and Montreal, Canada.
The decision places the 2026 Vuelta on Pogacar’s calendar in place of the two Canadian Grand Prix races, which typically take place in the same period. Organisers of the Quebec and Montreal events will therefore be without the high‑profile rider, who attracted global attention when he first broke through in 2019.
Pogacar’s participation in the Vuelta a España aligns with his focus on the three‑week Grand Tour, a race that traverses Spain’s varied terrain. By committing to the Spanish tour, he forgoes the chance to compete on the streets of Quebec and Montreal, circuits that have hosted international motor‑sport events in recent years.
The timing of the Vuelta, set for the latter half of August, coincides with the Canadian Grand Prix schedule, creating an unavoidable clash for riders who wish to contest both. Pogacar’s choice reflects a prioritisation of the Grand Tour over the North American races, a move that will be noted by fans following his career since his breakout performance in 2019.
Both the Quebec and Montreal Grand Prix organisers have yet to announce a replacement for the absent star, while the Vuelta a España will welcome Pogacar among its roster of competitors. His presence is expected to add another layer of competition to the Spanish event, as he aims to build on the reputation he earned when he first captured worldwide attention.
The cycling community will watch closely as the Vuelta unfolds later this month, while the Canadian Grand Prix series proceeds without one of its most recognised international riders.