“Why shouldn’t he go to the Giro?” – Alberto Contador pushes Enric Mas towards bold 2026 Grand Tour gamble

Since stepping into the professional ranks, Enric Mas has always had a strong advocate in Alberto Contador. The Spanish cycling legend has never doubted the Movistar Team leader’s climbing ability. And even though the Mallorcan is currently recovering from a knee injury, Contador believes he could realistically target — and win — a Grand Tour in 2026.

Speaking to Marca at the launch of his new bike in Tenerife, Contador discussed several subjects, but he was absolutely clear on one point: Mas’s 2026 season should be built around the Giro d’Italia. “Why shouldn’t he go to the Giro? Enric is a natural climber, and the Corsa Rosa could suit him perfectly,” Contador said.

Until now, racing the Giro with full responsibility has been difficult for Mas. Movistar Team simply didn’t have another leader capable of covering the Tour de France or the Vuelta a Espana — the two cornerstone races for the Spanish outfit. That’s why Mas has traditionally been committed to the Tour–Vuelta double.

However, the arrival of Cian Uijtdebroeks has changed the picture dramatically, giving Mas far greater flexibility in choosing his targets.

There is one potential downside: the Giro d’Italia that Mas could finally debut in looks like an exceptionally tough edition. Jonas Vingegaard is expected to line up, making his own Giro debut. And he may not be alone. Remco Evenepoel could also target the race if the route — to be unveiled on 1 December — aligns with his strengths as the new leader of Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe. Current rumours suggest a long time trial may feature, something that would favour Evenepoel and work against Mas.

Then there is Isaac del Toro, widely expected to return for another attempt after finishing second overall in 2025, losing the race to Simon Yates on the Colle delle Finestre on stage 20.

Three world-class rivals — and all of them serious threats.