Ensenada, Baja California — Mexican cyclist Isaac del Toro will make history as the first Mexican in nearly 30 years to compete in the Tour de France, after UAE Team Emirates-XRG confirmed his inclusion in its 2026 lineup.
The 22-year-old from Ensenada will debut in the prestigious race, widely considered the pinnacle of professional cycling. His selection follows a strong season that showcased his development and caught the attention of the Emirati squad.
To prepare for the Tour, the team adjusted del Toro’s calendar, skipping the Giro d’Italia to ensure he arrives in peak physical condition for the French race.
Del Toro will join one of the strongest rosters in the peloton, led by Slovenian star Tadej Pogacar, the defending champion and top favorite to win a record-tying fifth title. The UAE Team Emirates-XRG lineup also includes experienced riders Adam Yates, Brandon McNulty, Tim Wellens, Nils Politt, Florian Vermeersch, and Felix Grossschartner, who will support Pogacar over the three-week event.
Del Toro is expected to play a key role in the mountains, where his climbing ability could make him a crucial ally for Pogacar on the most demanding stages.
His participation marks a historic moment for Mexican cycling. He will become only the third Mexican to race the Tour de France, and the first since Miguel Arroyo competed in 1997.
The 2026 Tour de France will start in Barcelona with a team time trial, beginning a new chapter for del Toro and a significant milestone for Mexican cycling on the world stage.
