Final Startlist Classic Var 2026 | Riders: Marc Hirschi, Quinn Simmons, Alberto Bettiol, Diego Ulissi, Paul Lapeira and more

February in the Var means one thing. Punchy climbs, twisting coastal roads and a peloton packed with riders looking to light up the early European calendar. The third edition of Classic Var returns with a startlist that blends WorldTour pedigree, proven French puncheurs and ambitious ProTeam talent ready to make a statement on home roads.

With the race shifting away from the brutal Mont Faron summit finish that defined its debut and towards a more open, rolling profile in 2026, the tactical picture changes. A reduced sprint is no longer out of the question, but the terrain remains selective enough to reward aggressive racing and late attacks.

There is no shortage of headline names.

Marc Hirschi leads the line for Tudor Pro Cycling Team, bringing genuine one-day firepower to a course that should suit his punch and race craft. If the finale comes down to a small group, few in this field can match his finishing speed uphill or on rolling terrain.

French interest is strong once again. Defending podium finisher Paul Lapeira returns with Decathlon CMA CGM Team, while Warren Barguil fronts Team Picnic PostNL in a race that traditionally rewards riders willing to anticipate rather than wait.

There is depth everywhere you look. XDS Astana Team arrive with the experienced trio of Alberto Bettiol, Diego Ulissi and Simone Velasco. Lidl - Trek bring attacking intent through Quinn Simmons, Andrea Bagioli and Bauke Mollema. Bahrain Victorious could look to Phil Bauhaus if it stays together, while Alec Segaert adds another aggressive option.