Clásica de San Sebastián 2026: Favourites

fotobureau Cor VosThe Clásica de San Sebastián is a race for punchy climbers with strong descending skills and, ideally, a fast sprint to finish it off when push comes to shove. Who are the major contenders to win the 2026 edition?

Published on 29 July 2026

The route takes in six ascents before the Murgil appears with 10.1 kilometres remaining. The 2.1 kilometres climb at 10.1% precedes a flat kilometre at the top before the riders fly down to a 3-kilometre run-in to the line in San Sebastián.

On paper, it’s tempting to back riders who impressed in the Tour, but more often than not, they’re too fatigued to truly fight for victory. History shows that riders building towards the Vuelta — or targeting other late-season goals — tend to have the upper hand.

The last winner of the Clásica San Sebastián to have completed the Tour de France the week before was Neilson Powless (2021). In each of Remco Evenepoel's three victories – in 2019, 2022 and 2023 – he had not ridden the Tour. The same applies to the last two winners, Marc Hirschi (2024) and Giulio Ciccone (2025).

But, of course, you never know how things will play out this year. One thing is for sure: Evenepoel's team, Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe, is bringing a formidable line-up to the Basque Country. In addition to the Belgian himself, Giulio Pellizzari, Primoz Roglic, Maxim Van Gils (third last year) and Dani Martínez all have what it takes to challenge for victory.

Favourites Clásica de San Sebastián 2026

**** Remco Evenepoel, Giulio Pellizzari, Giulio Ciccone
*** Primoz Roglic, Jan Christen, Mauro Schmid, Jonathan Narváez
** Jay Vine, Felix Gall, Thibau Nys, Quinn Simmons, Filippo Zana
* Maxim Van Gils, Daniel Felipe Martínez, Matteo Jorgenson, Enric Mas