The sixth edition of the AlUla Tour 2026, a global sporting event that attracts cycling enthusiasts worldwide, continued today amidst an atmosphere of excitement and fierce competition among a selection of the world's best cyclists. This race is organized to a high standard by the Saudi Cycling Federation, in strategic partnership with the renowned ASO (organizers of the Tour de France), the Royal Commission for AlUla Governorate, and under the direct supervision of the Saudi Ministry of Sport.
In the second stage held today, the competitors started and finished at Al-Mansheya train station, covering a distance of 152 kilometers. The final meters witnessed a tactical battle and tremendous speed, during which Italian cyclist Jonathan Milan, star of the Lidl Trek team, secured first place, thus claiming the overall lead in the Tour. The competition was fierce, with his fellow Italian, Daniel Skirle of the Bahrain Victorious team, finishing second, while German Pascal Ackmann of the Gaico Al-Ula team came in third, recording the same time.
In the overall standings (green jersey) after the first two stages, Jonathan Millan leads with a total time of 3 hours, 36 minutes, and 32 seconds. He is followed closely by Belgian Milan Fritten of the Cofidis team, just 4 seconds behind, while Italian Matteo Muschetti of the Q36.5 Pro Cycling team occupies third place, 6 seconds adrift, indicating a fierce competition in the remaining stages.
The importance of the event and the historical context
The AlUla Tour is gaining increasing importance year after year, building on the Kingdom's success in hosting major sporting events as part of its Vision 2030 goals. The partnership with the ASO is a strategic step that has placed the tour on the UCI calendar, making it a preferred destination for international teams preparing for the European season. AlUla boasts a unique geography, combining desert landscapes, rocky mountains, and historical monuments, giving the race a visual and artistic character unparalleled in the world of cycling.
Sports and tourism impact
The importance of this tour extends beyond its competitive aspect; it plays a pivotal role in promoting sports tourism in the Kingdom, highlighting the cultural heritage of AlUla. The event also contributes to spreading cycling culture within Saudi society and the wider Arab region, inspiring a new generation of athletes. Attracting world-renowned names like Jonathan Millan and Pascal Ackman further enhances the race's international media and public profile.
All eyes will be on the third stage tomorrow, Thursday, which promises new tests of the riders' abilities. It will start from the "Winter Park" and reach the finish line at "Bir Jida" and "Jebel Warka," covering a total distance of 142 kilometers, in a stage that may see changes in the overall ranking due to the nature of the route.
