“I’m happy to be back in the peloton”: Mikel Landa returns to competition at Tour de Suisse after Itzulia crash

Mikel Landa will make his long-awaited return to racing at the Tour de Suisse, marking his first competitive appearance since the injury he suffered at Itzulia Basque Country ended his spring campaign. The Spanish climber headlines a Soudal - Quick-Step lineup that will target strong results across a shortened edition of one of cycling’s most prestigious stage races, which serves as the final WorldTour test before the Tour de France.

The 2026 Tour de Suisse will take place from 17 to 21 June and has been reduced from eight stages to five. Despite the shorter format, the route will still visit the German-, French- and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland.

The opening two stages are expected to suit puncheurs, while stage 3 should provide the sprinters with their only clear opportunity of the race. The general classification is likely to be decided by a 23.87-kilometre individual time trial and the summit finish in Villars-sur-Ollon during the final two days.

For Landa, the race represents an important step in his recovery after the crash that disrupted his plans for April and May. The 36-year-old will make only his second career appearance at the Tour de Suisse.

“It hasn’t been a great season so far for me, as I had some bad luck, and coming into this race I am missing some racing days,” Landa said in a team statement. “But I’m happy to go there, be back in the peloton and improve my shape.”

Landa will be supported by a squad featuring Alberto Dainese, Gil Gelders, Maximilian Schachmann, Ilan Van Wilder, Louis Vervaeke and Filippo Zana.

Sports director Sep Vanmarcke highlighted the unique nature of this year’s edition, with every stage presenting a different challenge.

“It’s a different Tour de Suisse, with only five stages on the menu and different scenarios for each day,” Vanmarcke said. “Our riders are motivated to give their best, so we hope for a strong week with some good results.”