The Vuelta a España is about to start its 78th edition on August 26 in Barcelona and 6 Colombians will take part in the great start;
The Vuelta a España, one of the most prestigious events in the world of cycling, has been won twice by Colombian cyclists. Lucho Herrera led the way in 1987, showing the world the strength and endurance of the "escarabajos" in the Spanish mountains. Then, in 2016, Nairo Quintana reaffirmed the Colombian power by winning the title, consolidating himself as one of the most influential names in the modern history of cycling.
The Colombian influence in the Vuelta a España is not limited to the champions, as the South American country is in seventh place on the list of nations with the most stage victories in this competition. With a total of 37 victories, Colombian cyclists have left their mark on different terrains and weather conditions throughout Spain.
This year, six talented Colombian cyclists are set to compete and seek to further increase Colombia's prestige and presence in the Vuelta a España 2023. Leading this outstanding group is Egan Bernal, representing Team Ineos Grenadiers. Bernal, after having raced the Tour, will have the task of being Geraint Thomas's domestique in the Spanish race.
But Bernal will not be alone. Alongside him, five other Colombian riders will be on the start line, each with their own goals and objectives. Santiago Buitrago, from the Bahrain Victorious team, hopes to take advantage of his ability in the mountains to look for stages and a prominent place in the general classification. Einer Rubio, in the ranks of Movistar, will be looking to prove his worth in one of the most prestigious squads in the international peloton. Both won in the Giro, will they be able to repeat in the Vuelta?
Speed and power will be represented by Sebastián Molano (UAE Team Emirates), while Diego Camargo (EF Education) and Sergio Higuita (Bora-Hansgrohe) will bring their experience and search for stage wins;
The Vuelta a España 2023 promises intense emotions, and Colombian cyclists are ready to write a new chapter in their country's cycling history. As the eyes of the world turn to Barcelona for the start of this great competition, Colombia is proud of its representatives and eagerly awaits the exploits to come on the Spanish roads.