The 32.5-kilometer stage is poised to be one of the final major challenges against the clock before the race's conclusion. Beyond its sporting aspect, it will serve to pay tribute to the 1986 edition winner, Álvaro Pino, and to traverse parts of the Jerez rural area, recognizing residents affected by recent floods.
The official presentation took place in the Salón Noble of the City Hall, attended by the mayor, María José García-Pelayo, and the general director of La Vuelta, Javier Guillén. Both emphasized the strong historical bond between the city and the cycling race.
Javier Guillén expressed his satisfaction with the return to Jerez, calling it "coming home." He thanked the City Council for its involvement and highlighted the significant Andalusian presence in this 81st edition of La Vuelta, featuring ten stages across the community's eight provinces.
The race director underscored the dual symbolic significance of the Jerez stage: the homage to Álvaro Pino on the 40th anniversary of his victory and the recognition of the rural area that has endured "very difficult times after the floods."
The arrival of the event is expected to generate a considerable economic impact, with over 3,500 people staying overnight in the city and international reach through television broadcasts in approximately 190 countries for over three hours.
The potential participation of Slovenian rider Tadej Pogacar, the reigning Tour de France winner, adds to the anticipation, although his presence has not yet been officially confirmed.
Mayor María José García-Pelayo thanked Javier Guillén for his commitment to Jerez, highlighting the anticipated "enormous media impact," with over a thousand accredited journalists. She emphasized the triple significance of the stage: homage to Álvaro Pino, possible presence of Pogacar, and recognition for the flood-affected rural area.
García-Pelayo recalled that Jerez has hosted La Vuelta thirteen times since 1950, stressing the race's deep roots in the city and its alignment this year with the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy and the Grape Harvest Festivals, elements that "pair well" with the sporting event.
The stage route will enter the municipal area through the rural districts of El Portal and Lomopardo, pass through Estella del Marqués, and in the urban center, run along Avenida de Europa and the Glorieta del Tío Pepe, concluding at Avenida Alcalde Álvaro Domecq, near the Plaza del Caballo, where a 'fan zone' will be set up.
The organization anticipates a deployment of over 130 Local Police officers and around 200 volunteers to minimize traffic disruptions. The economic return is expected to be substantial, with increased hotel occupancy and hospitality activity, in addition to international promotion.
