The final stage of Itzulia Basque Country 2026 will present riders with one last mountainous challenge as the peloton tackles 135.2 kilometers from Antzuola to Bergara on April 11. With over 3,000 meters of elevation gain packed into the route, Stage 6 promises to be a decisive finale that could shake up the general classification standings.

Demanding Route Profile

The stage will wind through the heart of the Basque Country’s most challenging terrain, featuring multiple categorized climbs that will test the legs of even the strongest riders. The 3,081 meters of total elevation gain makes this one of the most demanding stages in this year’s race, with steep gradients and technical descents that could create significant time gaps in the final kilometers to Bergara.

Del Toro’s Continued Absence

UAE Team Emirates will once again line up without Isaac del Toro, who has been sidelined since his crash on Stage 3. The Mexican rider sustained a right thigh muscle tear and abrasions in that incident, forcing him to abandon the race and miss what would have been a crucial test of his climbing abilities. Del Toro’s absence removes a key contender from the mountain stages, leaving his teammates to carry the team’s ambitions in the final stage.

GC Battle Intensifies

With del Toro out of contention, the general classification fight will focus on the remaining climbers who have survived the week’s demanding stages. The mountainous terrain will favor pure climbers and could see dramatic changes in the overall standings, particularly if weather conditions deteriorate in the Basque mountains. The technical nature of the climbs around Bergara will reward riders with both power and tactical awareness.

Key Contenders

The stage profile will likely suit riders who excel in steep, punchy climbs rather than long, steady ascents. Expect attacks on the final climbs as riders seek stage glory and valuable UCI points in this WorldTour event. The combination of distance and elevation will create a war of attrition that could produce a thrilling finale to the six-day race.

Cycling fans can expect fireworks as the Itzulia Basque Country reaches its dramatic conclusion in the mountains above Bergara.