Lotto-Intermarché has assembled a promising team for the 2026 Vuelta a España, with 20-year-old Belgian cyclist Jarno Widar leading the squad. This marks Widar’s Grand Tour debut, and the team is focused on providing him with valuable experience throughout the three-week race. (bikeworldnews.com)
In the opening mountain stage to Andorra la Vella, Widar impressed by finishing second, trailing only Tadej Pogačar. He managed to find his rhythm after initial challenges, adopting his own pace to bridge the gap to the leading group. Reflecting on his performance, Widar expressed pride in his achievement, viewing it as a response to those who doubted his abilities. (cyclingnews.com)
Team sports director Mario Aerts emphasized Widar’s winning mindset, stating, “Jarno is a winner, and that is the mindset he takes with him to Monaco.” The team aims to support Widar’s development while also seizing opportunities for other riders, such as Lars Craps and Luca Van Boven, to pursue stage wins. (bikeworldnews.com)
Overall, Lotto-Intermarché’s approach to the Vuelta a España is centered on nurturing young talent like Widar, providing them with the platform to gain experience and achieve personal milestones in the world of professional cycling.
Highlights:
- ‘It’s not normal. I’m actually a bit surprised today’ – 20-year-old Jarno Widar impresses with second place on first-ever Grand Tour mountain stage at Vuelta a España | Cyclingnews, Published on Monday, August 24
- Vuelta. Tour d’Espagne – Jarno Widar : «À ceux qui disent que je suis trop faible…», Published on Monday, August 24
- Jarno Widar, second only to Pogačar, shines at Vuelta a España, Published on Tuesday, August 25