Vuelta on the French Riviera: a moment to remember

23 August 2026 residents and visitors of Châteauneuf-Grasse witnessed a rare sporting event: the second stage of the Spanish race La Vuelta, running from Monaco to Manosque, passed through their commune (Nice Premium). Local cycling enthusiasts, including members of AC Valbonne, did not hide their delight at the opportunity to see professional riders in person. For many it was a unique chance to get a taste of top-level sport, which usually passes far from their region.

A rare sporting event on the French Riviera

The second stage of La Vuelta, which started in Monaco and finished in Manosque, crossed the Alpes-Maritimes department. The route ran through Châteauneuf-Grasse, where hundreds of spectators lined the roadsides. For local residents it turned into a real celebration: they rarely see competitions of this level in their area.

Among those waiting for the riders were not only passers-by but devoted cycling fans. Many had come specifically to support the professionals and share the race atmosphere. Some wore their favourite teams’ jerseys, others waved flags, creating a festive mood.

Emotions of the local cyclists

Members of cycling club AC Valbonne, including its president Christophe Capanna, took up positions at a junction near the lake. They had just finished a training ride themselves and were eagerly awaiting the peloton’s arrival. For them the event symbolised recognition of their region in the world of professional sport.

«We are on the edge of France, and major races rarely take place here,» Capanna noted. «So La Vuelta on our roads is a real stroke of luck, perhaps even a once-in-a-lifetime moment.» He emphasised that for local cycling fans to see their idols in person is an inspiration and a motivation to keep practising what they love.

Inspiration for the younger generation

Organisers and club members hope that the passage of La Vuelta will leave a mark on the hearts of young spectators. According to Capanna, such events can sow in children the dream of becoming professional cyclists. He recalled how, as a child, he was stunned the first time he saw the race caravan and famous athletes. The region has already produced many bright names in cycling — for example, competitors of the Women’s Tour de France who grew up on the roads of the French Riviera (Women’s Tour de France).

«Moments like these are remembered forever,» he added. «Many adults still remember the first time they watched the passing champions. It creates a passion for cycling that is passed down from generation to generation.» His words are echoed by Roger, a 75-year-old cycling veteran who came to the race with his family.

Family traditions and a love of cycling

Roger, a member of Antibes Vélo Passion, said he has been passionate about cycling for 55 years. He has watched Paris–Nice and the Tour de France many times, but La Vuelta was a new experience for him. «It’s incredible to see the professionals speed past you,» he shared.

Roger emphasised that a love of cycling runs in his family: his children and grandchildren are also keen on the sport. «When children see their heroes, they want to be like them. For us it’s a family tradition to ride together,» he added with a smile. Such stories show how sport brings generations together. The AC Valbonne club, incidentally, increasingly offers newcomers the Mandelieu gravel routes (Mandelieu gravel routes) nearby — for those who want to try themselves off the road.

A moment worth waiting for

At around 13:30 the wait was over: the peloton sped past the spectators in a matter of seconds. Despite the brevity of the moment, emotions overwhelmed everyone present. Julia, who had come with her son dressed in a champion’s kit, described it like this: «We waited for many minutes, but saw only a few seconds of happiness. It was wonderful — brief, but unforgettable.»

For many, the day was a reminder that even a fleeting brush with top-level sport can leave a vivid mark on the memory. The festive atmosphere, which brought together people of different ages and nationalities, proved that La Vuelta is not just a race but a true event capable of uniting a community.

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Photo: Emilio Sánchez Hernández / Pexels