La Vuelta 2026 stage 11 kicks off as thousands gather along the coast for departure

Cartagena stood out as the epicenter of world cycling on Wednesday, September 2, as the city played host to the official start of Stage 11 of the 2026 Vuelta a España, one of the races of reference for the sport of international cycling. Thousands of local fans and travelling cycling enthusiasts lined the streets and port area under bright Mediterranean skies to cheer on the local and international participants, before the athletes set off on a 150-kilometre route toward the finish line, in Lorca.

Festive atmosphere at the waterfront

The morning built momentum early at the port’s Paseo Alfonso XII. Starting around midday, the traditional promotional caravan rolled out, handing out merchandise and entertaining crowds assembled near the water. Cycling fans had front-row access to the team buses, watching the finishing touches be put on the bikes and taking the opportunity to snap photos during the event.

Parading through the most historic landmarks of Cartagena

At precisely 1:50pm, the neutral departure commenced from the waterfront. The cyclists rolled through some of Cartagena’s most iconic landmarks, including the Héroes de Cavite monument, Calle Real, Plaza de España, and Paseo Alfonso XIII. Television broadcasts showcased panoramic views of the city’s rich history and heritage, highlighting features including the Arsenal Militar, the Regional Assembly and the famed “Cola de Ballena” sculpture.

Coastal crowds cheer on the parade of hardworking cyclists

Leaving the urban centre of Cartagena behind, the riders swept past Vista Alegre and Media Legua before tackling the coastal roads toward Portman, La Manga Club, and Atamaria. Fans from all over the Costa Calida and beyond gathered in droves in Los Belones, Los Nietos, and Los Urrutias as the parade of cyclists wound along the Mar Menor coastline before finally exiting Cartagena’s borders toward Totana and Lorca.

The mayor of Cartagena, Noelia Arroyo, praised the event’s local impact, pointing to the immense global visibility La Vuelta brings to the municipality.

With its hosting of this prestigious and long-awaited sporting event, which welcomed thousands of fans and cyclists from all over Spain and beyond, once again, Cartagena has proven itself a world-class backdrop for top-tier international sport.