“It’s not a punishment” - INEOS left Rodríguez at home and promised him leadership at La Vuelta; but what about Oscar Onley?
CyclingWednesday, 08 July 2026 at 16:50
The absence of Carlos Rodríguez from the 2026 Tour de France was one of the major surprises before the race began. The rider from Granada, fifth in 2023 and seventh in 2024, was left out of the Netcompany INEOS selection, a decision that sparked widespread speculation about his status in the team. Reportedly, he was promise leadership at La Vuelta, although that plan is also not set in stone.
However, one of the British team’s sports directors, Imanol Erviti, has moved to defuse any controversy, insisting it was a purely sporting and strategic choice. The Spaniard had finished the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes on a high and looked to be the team's main option for the mountains. He was removed from the lineup last minute, replaced by Tobias Foss.
Speaking to AS, Erviti explained that the team has shifted its approach for this edition of the Grande Boucle and that the goal is no longer solely to fight for the general classification.
“It’s a different Tour de France for us. We were always more about the GC, but this year the priority is a bit different. Day by day and stage hunting, that’s the target. One of them was also the team time trial, and we weren’t far off. Obviously, if we have someone placed up front on GC we won’t waste it, though we’re aware the objectives are different.”
After the injuries of Oscar Onley and Kévin Vauquelin's illness, the team decided to leave Rodríguez at home as the GC was no longer a priority. The team had claimed to fully focus on stage wins, although Geraint Thomas has now revealed that Thymen Arensman is eyeing the GC.
“Carlos’s build-up to the Tour wasn’t ideal”
Erviti explained that the Andalusian’s preparation was affected by illness during Auvergne, a circumstance that led the team to adjust its season plans.
“Carlos’ approach to the Tour wasn’t as straightforward as we would have liked. At the Dauphiné (Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, ed.) he had a mild flu and the team decided that he would be our reference for La Vuelta, pending also whether Onley can make it. For the Tour, the priorities changed, but we continue to value and appreciate Carlos. We trust he’ll be in great shape for La Vuelta.”
However with Onley absent from the Tour and likely to return for the final Grand Tour of the season, he is expected to aim for La Vuelta as well, where the two might co-lead the team
Carlos Rodríguez racing for Netcompany INEOS
In recent weeks there were many interpretations around the Spaniard’s omission, with some even suggesting a possible punishment from the team. Erviti was unequivocal in rejecting that theory.
“It’s not any kind of punishment that he’s not at the Tour. People are surprised, and it’s even impactful for me, but that’s why I wanted to explain it.”
The sports director also said he remains in contact with the rider and understands the disappointment of missing the most important race on the calendar.
“I’m in touch with him, and the relationship with the Tour is sometimes love-hate for many. It’s always exciting to race the events you watched on TV as a kid. He’s a smart guy, he’ll feel nostalgic about not being here, and it will give him energy for what’s next.”
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La Vuelta the main target
Far from seeing the absence as a step back, INEOS already has Rodríguez’s schedule mapped out for the coming weeks with the aim of reaching the Vuelta a España in peak form. “He’ll do the Tour of Austria, San Sebastián and the Vuelta a Burgos before heading to La Vuelta.”
Finally, Erviti stressed that the team’s faith in the Andalusian remains absolute and that his future within the British structure is not in question. “There’s no doubt about that. At least, as far as I know, there’s nothing to the contrary on the table.”
Under contract through 2027, Carlos Rodríguez will remain one of INEOS’ reference riders for the Grand Tours, although this year his main objective will be to shine at the Vuelta a España after his unexpected omission from the Tour de France.
Jorge BorregueroWriter
Jorge Borreguero is a journalist with a degree from the Complutense University of Madrid and has been a writer for Cyclinguptodate and Ciclismoaldia since early 2023. In this role, he has played a key part in the evolution of the website, particularly as a specialist covering Movistar Team. He regularly writes race reports, analytical pieces, and in-depth features about the team, and has conducted exclusive interviews and attended multiple team presentations, providing readers with firsthand insights into one of the leading professional cycling squads.
Throughout his career, Jorge has maintained a strong focus on sports journalism, gaining experience across a variety of disciplines, including basketball and football. However, his current work is almost entirely dedicated to cycling, contributing extensively to Ciclismoaldia and its sister website Cyclinguptodate. For these platforms, he combines thorough research with detailed reporting to deliver high-quality content, ranging from race previews and results to expert analysis of teams and riders.
Jorge’s reporting is marked by accuracy, depth, and a commitment to providing readers with reliable and authoritative information. His direct engagement with teams, athletes, and events ensures that his coverage reflects firsthand knowledge and professional insight. Through his work, he has established himself as a trusted voice in professional cycling journalism, bridging the gap between the sport and its global audience while maintaining rigorous editorial standards.
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