The city of San Sebastián hosted the official presentation of the 2026 Itzulia Women on May 7, with public officials, sponsors, and event organizers gathering for the ceremony. The three-stage race will cover nearly 400 kilometers and 14 climbs: Zarautz-Zarautz on Friday, May 15; Abadiño-Amorebieta on Saturday, May 16; and San Sebastián-San Sebastián on Sunday, May 17, following the route of the Classic.
San Sebastián Mayor Ion Insausti spoke at the event, alongside Sports Councilor Iñaki Gabarain. Also in attendance were OCETA President Javier Riaño; Kutxabank Gipuzkoa Network Director Marta Madinabeitia; Basque Government Physical Activity and Sport Director Gorka Iturriaga; Gipuzkoa Provincial Council Deputy for Culture, Cooperation, Youth and Sports Goizane Alvarez; Basotik Green Territorial Balance Deputy Xabier Arruti; Echemar Communications Director Ibon Barberia; and EITB Sports Director Joseba Urkiola.
Javier Riaño stated, “We are very pleased to continue consolidating this race with its fifth edition. The Itzulia Women is already one of the best international cycling races, thanks to all the people, companies, institutions, and fans who support it. The final start list will not be confirmed until 72 hours before the race.” Notably, riders like Blasi, Vollering, and Reusser are not expected to start, while Lippert and Bredewold are among those likely to compete.
Mayor Ion Insausti added, “It is an honor for the people of San Sebastián that our city hosts the final stage of a race that symbolizes the consolidation of women’s role in cycling. Our city remains a leader and reference in equality, both socially and in sports, with top-level teams and athletes in many women’s disciplines. By supporting this event, we deepen our promotion of equality in sports and give residents the chance to enjoy a cycling spectacle that is always beloved here and aligned with our values.”
Sports Councilor Iñaki Gabarain emphasized, “San Sebastián is a leading city in women’s sports, made possible by the support and visibility we give to athletes and clubs, as well as major events like the Itzulia Women. The Donostia-Donostia stage is our women’s Classic. The City Council will continue to back the Itzulia Women to ensure it remains an international sporting benchmark.”
Kutxabank, a late addition to the sponsorship, stated, “The Itzulia Women project aligns with our purpose and work: closeness to the territory, support for diversity and equal opportunities, and commitment to values such as respect, effort, and teamwork.” The bank will award the prize to the winner of each stage, filling a gap that existed until early this week.
EITB noted, “The Itzulia Women is one of the most important events of the year for us. As with the men’s race, high technology is deployed here. The television signal is sent to more than 180 countries. It is an event we approach with special enthusiasm and commitment.” They added that live broadcasts will air daily on ETB1 and kirolakeitb.eus.
