A race of historic proportions
The 2025 edition of the Vuelta a Andalucía is also known as the Ruta del Sol. Now elevated to the UCI ProSeries status, just below the World Tour, this year's race spans over 800 kilometres across four Andalusian provinces: Málaga, Jaén, Córdoba, and Cádiz.
The race started with an explosive 162.6-kilometre stage from Torrox to Nerja, followed by challenging routes through Jaén and Córdoba.
Cycling's biggest names
The race featured 17 professional teams and 119 riders from powerhouse squads like UAE Team Emirates, Ineos Grenadiers, Movistar Team, and AG2R Decathlon. The event reached over 140 million homes across 180 countries, with eight hours of live coverage broadcast in 20 languages through partners including Eurosport, RTVE's Teledeporte, and Andalucía TV.
It attracted some of cycling's biggest names. Olympic champion Tom Pidcock, former Tour de France winner Egan Bernal, climbing specialist Nairo Quintana, and Spanish hope Enric Mas lead a stellar international field. Local interest focused on Andalusian riders David Martín from Seville and José Manuel Díaz from Jaén, both representing Burgos BH, carrying regional hopes in this prestigious race.
The final stage: Benahavís to La Línea
On Sunday, February 23, cycling enthusiasts gathered in Benahavís for what promises to be a thrilling final stage. The 168.1-kilometre route from Benahavís to La Línea de la Concepción represented the culmination of an 820-kilometre journey across four Andalusian provinces. The route to La Línea de la Concepción wass split into two parts: the first section challenges riders with medium mountain terrain, while the second half flattened out as cyclists race across the Campo de Gibraltar towards the finish line.
Strategic importance
This final stage proved decisive in the overall standings, thanks to introducing the innovative "Golden Kilometre" - a key section offering time bonuses that could shake up the final classification. The stage's contrasting terrain presented teams with tactical challenges: mountain specialists needed to capitalise on the early climbs, while sprinters' teams would be eyeing the flat finish for a potential bunch sprint.
A fitting finale
The choice of Benahavís as the starting point for the final stage was particularly appropriate. Known for its stunning mountain views and challenging cycling terrain, this white village exemplifies the diverse landscape that has made the Vuelta a Andalucía one of Spain's most respected cycling races. The route from here to La Línea showcases the remarkable variety of Andalusian terrain, from mountain passes to coastal plains.
Be where the action begins!
This final stage capped off an intense five-day race that tested riders across eleven mountain passes, including the formidable first-category Madroño climb, six second-category ascents, and four third-category challenges. The race's elevation to UCI ProSeries status attracted top-tier talent, ensuring that the centenary edition lived up to its historic significance.
Cycling enthusiasts gathered in Benahavís on February 23rd to immerse themselves in pure cycling culture. Spectators watched pro riders warm up, shared the excitement with fans from across Europe, and found perfect viewing spots alongside local families to watch the history unfold. ¡Vamos Benahavís!
