La Vuelta 2026: Every Rider Who Has Abandoned the Race So Far
La Vuelta a España 2026 has already taken a heavy toll on the peloton.
Crashes, injuries, illness and personal circumstances have forced several riders to leave the race during the opening stages, dramatically changing the shape of the Spanish Grand Tour.
The most recent and biggest withdrawal came during Stage 8, when race leader Tadej Pogačar was forced to abandon after a serious crash.
Here is an updated overview of the riders who have left La Vuelta 2026 so far.
Tadej Pogačar – UAE Team Emirates-XRG
Tadej Pogačar’s withdrawal was the biggest shock of La Vuelta 2026 so far.
The Slovenian star was wearing the red jersey and leading the general classification when he crashed during Stage 8. Despite attempting to continue, Pogačar was unable to finish the stage and was forced to abandon the race.
His exit dramatically changed the battle for the overall title, with Enric Mas taking over the red jersey.
Cian Uijtdebroeks – Movistar Team
Cian Uijtdebroeks was forced to leave the race before Stage 5.
The Belgian rider had been struggling after suffering an ankle injury in an earlier crash. After fighting through the pain, he was unable to continue and his Vuelta came to an early end.
Joshua Tarling – Netcompany INEOS
Joshua Tarling abandoned La Vuelta during Stage 6.
The British rider had started the race shortly after the death of his younger brother and had even produced a strong performance in the opening time trial.
His withdrawal was an emotional moment, with his team making clear that family comes first.
Sergio Chumil – Burgos Burpellet BH
Sergio Chumil was one of the early riders to leave the race after crashing during Stage 2.
The incident ended his hopes of completing the 2026 edition.
Alex Kirsch – Cofidis
Alex Kirsch abandoned La Vuelta during Stage 3.
The Cofidis rider became another early withdrawal as the demanding opening week began to reduce the size of the peloton.
Roel van Sintmaartensdijk – Lotto-Intermarché
Roel van Sintmaartensdijk was also forced to leave the race after a crash.
The Dutch rider did not continue after Stage 5.
Markel Beloki – EF Education-EasyPost
Markel Beloki was another rider to exit the race during the opening week.
His withdrawal added to the growing list of riders forced out before the race reached its second week.
The List Continues to Grow
With more than two weeks of racing still remaining, the number of withdrawals could continue to rise.
La Vuelta is one of cycling’s toughest Grand Tours, and crashes, illness, injuries and exhaustion can change the race at any moment.
SPORTVIAX will continue to update this story as more riders abandon La Vuelta a España 2026.
Last updated: August 29, 2026.
