The second stage of the Tour de France, set for Sunday, 5 July 2026, will bypass Barcelona's Collserola Park. This route change ensures public access along the entire course. It avoids restrictions due to an African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak in the park.
The Generalitat de Catalunya requested this alteration. The Ajuntament de Barcelona then proposed the new route. The Tour organisation subsequently approved the revised plan. The original 182.4-kilometre stage from Tarragona to Barcelona will now measure 168.4 kilometres. This represents a reduction of 16 kilometres. This modification allows spectators to line the route, promoting a "citizen celebration" around the cycling event. The previous route through Collserola Natural Park would have prohibited public viewing.
Tour Route Adjustments for Public Safety
The revised route will see cyclists leave Molins de Rei, a town in the Baix Llobregat region. They will then continue along the N-340 directly to Plaça Espanya in Barcelona. This new path avoids the previously planned section through Collserola. The change also modifies the passage through Sant Feliu de Llobregat and Sant Just Desvern. Additionally, the race will now pass through L'Hospitalet de Llobregat and Esplugues de Llobregat. These are all significant municipalities in the Barcelona metropolitan area. This ensures a quick entry into the city after leaving the Baix Llobregat towns.
The African Swine Fever outbreak in Collserola Park prompted the access restrictions. The Catalan government has maintained strict management of the outbreak. This includes limiting access to natural areas. These measures prevent the virus from spreading further. They also aim to stop wild boar dispersal within the restricted zone. Furthermore, they help professional teams eradicate the disease. Collserola Park is a vital green lung for Barcelona residents. It covers over 8,000 hectares and is popular for hiking and cycling.
African Swine Fever: A Serious Concern
African Swine Fever is a serious viral illness. It affects both domestic pigs and wild boar. The disease shows high virulence, rapid diffusion, and high mortality rates among affected animals. ASF does not transmit to humans. However, its significant economic and commercial impacts demand strict control measures. European law mandates these actions to protect the agricultural sector. The rigorous approach by the Generalitat aims to contain the virus effectively.
This is not the first time the Tour de France has altered a stage due to a health crisis. Last year, organisers changed a section in French territory. That adjustment was due to contagious nodular dermatosis. This precedent demonstrates the Tour's flexibility in prioritising public health and safety. The organisers work closely with local authorities to ensure smooth operations.
Grand Départ Barcelona 2026 Programme
The Grand Départ Barcelona 2026 includes three stages across Catalonia. Barcelona will host the start for the first time in Tour history. The first stage, on Friday, 4 July, is a 19-kilometre team time trial in Barcelona. It begins at Parc del Fòrum. The route covers city landmarks like the maritime façade and the Sagrada Família. It then features a challenging finish with two consecutive climbs to the Montjuïc Olympic Stadium. The team classification will depend on the first rider's time. However, individual times will also be recorded for the general classification.
The second stage, on Saturday, 5 July, runs from Tarragona to Barcelona. It will end with an ascent to Montjuïc Castle. This iconic climb often features in major cycling events. The third stage, on Sunday, 6 July, starts in Granollers. It will finish in Les Angles, France. Before the race, the traditional official team presentation will take place in Barcelona on Thursday, 2 July. This event allows fans to see the riders up close.
The three days of racing cover over 350 kilometres. They pass through more than sixty municipalities. These span the provinces of Barcelona, Tarragona, and Girona. This extensive coverage brings the excitement of the Tour to many communities.
The route adjustment prioritises public engagement and safety. It ensures that residents and visitors can fully experience the Tour de France. This major international event will bring significant attention to Barcelona and Catalonia. It also highlights the importance of public health measures in large-scale events. Organisers aim for a memorable and safe spectacle for everyone involved.
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Originally published by Barcelona City Council Press Room. Read original article.
