If you are a fan of cycling, you have probably heard about La Vuelta a España. This race is the third and final Grand Tour of the season, alongside the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France. The Vuelta has been held annually since 1935, and it has become one of the most prestigious cycling events in the world.
One of the most unique aspects of La Vuelta is its route, which changes every year. Unlike other Grand Tours, which usually finish in Paris (Tour de France) or Milan (Giro d’Italia), La Vuelta has finished in different cities throughout Spain over its history.
However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable absence: La Vuelta is no longer finishing in Madrid. This decision has sparked controversy among fans and experts alike. So why is La Vuelta not finishing in Madrid anymore?
Firstly, it’s important to understand that La Vuelta’s route planning is a complex process that involves multiple parties. The organizers have to consider different factors such as logistics, safety, accessibility for spectators and media coverage.
In recent years, Madrid’s city council has become more reluctant to host major sporting events due to concerns about traffic disruption and environmental impact. As a result, La Vuelta’s organizers have had to find alternative locations for their final stage.
Aside from logistical concerns, there are also sporting reasons for not finishing in Madrid. In the past few editions of La Vuelta, organizers have opted for more challenging routes that include mountain stages on the final days of racing.
These demanding stages often take place outside Madrid and require different finishes that better suit their terrain characteristics. For instance, last year’s edition ended with a grueling climb up Alto de la Covatilla in Salamanca province.
Finally, another factor behind this decision is related to promoting regional tourism. By choosing different locations every year, La Vuelta’s organizers can showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Spain’s regions to a global audience.
For example, in 2020, La Vuelta started in the Basque Country, passed through five different regions, and finished in Madrid’s outskirts. This allowed for a more varied and engaging experience for both riders and fans.
In conclusion, there are different reasons why La Vuelta is not finishing in Madrid anymore. The decision is based on a combination of logistical, sporting, and promotional factors that aim to provide the best possible experience for everyone involved. Although some fans might miss the traditional finish line at Madrid’s Plaza de Cibeles, they can still enjoy the excitement of La Vuelta from other beautiful locations throughout Spain.