Vuelta a Espana set to prioritise Spanish teams for wildcards: "The Spanish teams have a great chance"

Javier Guillen, the director of the Vuelta a Espana, has spoken about the ongoing debate surrounding the UCI’s wildcard distribution. The discussion has intensified as more ProTeams express frustration over the allocation process.

Both the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a Espana have reportedly requested an additional wildcard from the UCI. This would allow more teams to secure a place in their respective Grand Tours while accommodating both local and international squads.

“We will see who we give them to, but of course everyone has a chance and it must be said that the Spanish teams have a great chance,” said Guillén. Despite concerns from Spanish ProTeams, he firmly denied that the Vuelta would exclude them.

“Because we exclude no one as Vuelta. Movistar is the only Spanish team that is guaranteed to start, because they have that right as a WorldTeam.”

Several Spanish squads, including Equipo Kern Pharma, Caja Rural - Seguros RGA, Euskaltel-Euskadi, and Burgos-BH, are all vying for a wildcard invitation. Guillén acknowledged their ambitions but also highlighted the competition from international teams.

“We have to take into account the presence of Spanish teams, but there are also strong international teams that would really like to come to La Vuelta,” he told Relevo.

With demand for wildcards increasing, the decision remains uncertain. “Everyone knows how it has been for years, but it is also true that there is a lot of pressure. I don't know yet who will get the wildcards.”