The sixth edition of the AlUla Tour, a global sporting event combining challenge and competition amidst the natural beauty and historical richness of AlUla Governorate, kicked off on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The race features a wide range of participants, including 17 international teams represented by 119 elite professional cyclists, competing across several stages to prove their mettle in one of the region's most prominent cycling races. The event is organized by the Saudi Cycling Federation, in cooperation with the renowned ASO (Association for Sport) organization, the Royal Commission for AlUla Governorate, and under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Sport.
Historical background and evolution of the race
The race, formerly known as the Saudi Tour, dates back to 2020 and quickly established itself on the international stage. With its move to AlUla, the race acquired a new identity, linking it to one of the world's most important heritage sites. Its inclusion in the UCI Asia Tour professional cycling calendar reflects its growing importance and attracts top-tier teams such as the UCI WorldTeams and ProTeams. Furthermore, the partnership with the ASO, the organization responsible for the Tour de France, ensures the highest organizational and logistical standards, further enhancing the race's global prestige.
The importance of the event and its strategic impact
The AlUla Tour is more than just a sporting competition; it's an integral part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and enhance the Kingdom's position as a global destination for tourism, sports, and culture. The race showcases AlUla's stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and archaeological sites to millions of viewers worldwide. Locally, the event promotes cycling and inspires a new generation of athletes, while also boosting the region's economy by stimulating the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Details of the first phase and its results
The first stage of the race was fiercely contested, with the riders starting and finishing on the camel racing track, covering a total distance of 158 kilometers. The stage featured diverse terrain that tested the riders' abilities. Ultimately, Italian rider Jonathan Milan of Lidl Trek secured first place, recording a time of 3 hours, 36 minutes, and 32 seconds. Belgian rider Milan Fritten of Cofidis finished second, four seconds behind, while Italian rider Matteo Muschetti of Q36.5 Pro Cycling came in third, six seconds back.
The excitement continues with the start of the second stage competitions tomorrow, Wednesday, which will extend for a distance of 152 kilometers, where the cyclists will start and finish at Al-Manshia train station, continuing their journey through the enchanting landscapes of Al-Ula.
