Tom Pidcock sets out stall for GC challenge as Q36.5 confirm Vuelta a Espana lineup

As expected, Tom Pidcock will spearhead Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team at the 2025 Vuelta a Espana, as the British all-rounder takes on his second Grand Tour of the season following a strong Giro d’Italia campaign.

Pidcock, who made his Grand Tour debut at the Vuelta in 2021, returns to Spain eager to test himself in the general classification after a summer that included both mountain bike success and stage-hunting form at the Arctic Race of Norway.

“The course this year is very diverse but still typical of the Vuelta, with its many uphill finishes,” Pidcock said in a press release on the Q36.5 team's official website. “There are plenty of stages with profiles that could suit a rider like me, and there’s even a stage in Andorra, quite close to where I live. We learned from the Giro and had more time for thorough preparation this time, with an altitude camp and the Arctic Race of Norway. I’m curious to see what I can do in the general classification. For that, we have a strong team, with riders who each bring their own strengths. It’s a well-rounded group, we’ve prepared well, and I’m really looking forward to starting in Piemonte this Saturday with the boys.”

Pidcock will be backed by a versatile squad, including Spanish veteran David de la Cruz, who has a deep personal history with the Vuelta.

“The Vuelta is the most special race of the year,” de la Cruz reflected. “It’s where I had my first pro win and wore the leader’s jersey nine years ago. This race gave me the opportunity to show myself and it’s been driving my career throughout: in winter, in spring, in summer and at altitude camps. The Vuelta is one of the biggest races on the calendar and it’s where I meet my family and friends.

“I will help Tom like in Tirreno where we were a good tandem. He is exploring his capacities as a Grand Tour rider. No one knows yet, even himself, what he can do and I am happy to help with my experience – but I also look forward to get my own chance when one presents itself.”

Alex Sans Vega, Q36.5’s Head of Racing, is bullish about the team’s chances – and particularly about what Pidcock might deliver. “I am curious how far he can go in the GC because the course suits him perfectly,” Vega said. “We have a strong team in general and I am confident for a good team performance. Tom will have Damo, Zuke and Xabier Mikel with him, like he did in the Giro d’Italia. A special mention for David de la Cruz who brings experience and knows this race so well.

“For me it’s wonderful to see two riders who started their pro career with us make their Grand Tour debut. The steps that both Fabio and Marcel made this year are testament to our development vision. We have four Spanish riders at the start line and can expect many fans on the Spanish roads. I am grateful we received the wildcard and I can’t wait to get started.”

The Spaniard is also looking forward to the team time trial on day five in Figueres, near his home in Girona. “That was the first stage I reconned when I saw the course,” he added. “I know the area really well and it’s something for the fans to look forward to. It will be a good show. It’s a mix of fast sections and more technical parts.”

Tom Pidcock
David de la Cruz
Damien Howson
Nick Zukowsky
Xabier Mikel Azparren
David González
Fabio Christen
Marcel Camprubí