'A complete disappointment' – Former winner and podium finisher Richard Carapaz will not start 2026 Giro d'Italia

Richard Carapaz, the 2019 Giro d’Italia winner and a consistent podium finisher in recent editions, will not start the 2026 race due to recovery from surgery. The 32-year-old Ecuadorian rider underwent an operation to remove a perineal cyst after the Volta a Catalunya, but complications in healing have delayed his return to training. As a result, Carapaz and his team have decided to prioritise his health and focus on the Tour de France instead, marking a significant absence from one of cycling’s most prestigious Grand Tours. Carapaz’s withdrawal adds to a growing list of notable non-starters for the 2026 Giro d’Italia, including João Almeida and Mikel Landa, both sidelined due to illness and injury respectively. Carapaz’s record in the Giro is unmatched among the original favourites, with a victory in 2019 and podium finishes in 2022 and 2025. His absence leaves a void in the general classification (GC) competition, removing one of the peloton’s most aggressive and unpredictable contenders from the race. Reflecting on the withdrawal, Carapaz expressed his disappointment, emphasising his affection for the Giro and frustration at being unable to prepare adequately. He acknowledged the importance of prioritising his health despite the personal and professional setback. His absence means that none of the top three finishers from the previous year’s Giro will be competing, significantly reshaping the race dynamics and the list of potential challengers. With Carapaz and Almeida out, the spotlight intensifies on Jonas Vingegaard, who now stands as the clear favourite for the 2026 Giro. Other riders expected to challenge Vingegaard include Giulio Pellizzari, Jai Hindley, Egan Bernal, and Adam Yates, all of whom will be looking to capitalise on the depleted field. The race is set to be a compelling contest, but the loss of Carapaz removes a key element of unpredictability from the GC battle.