Del Toro Wins UAE Tour Stage 1, Shocks Sprinters & Takes Race Lead

In a stunning upset on Monday, Isaac del Toro of UAE Team Emirates-XRG claimed victory in the opening stage of the UAE Tour. The 22-year-old Mexican cyclist surprised a field of seasoned sprinters and climbers with a powerful, early attack on the uphill finish in Liwa Palace.

A Sensational Stage Win

Del Toro’s victory wasn’t simply a win; it was a statement. He outpaced Cees Bol (Astana-XDS), who finished second and Antonio Tiberi (Bahrain Victorious) who rounded out the podium. The win underscores the growing potential of the young rider, who some are already calling the “hottest prospect in cycling.”

Del Toro’s Perspective

Speaking after the race, Del Toro admitted the victory felt almost unreal. “I was thinking I might have a chance, but it was a dream, not realistic,” he said. He described making a split-second decision, seizing an opportunity and “going full” when he saw a chance to win.

Did You Know? Isaac del Toro’s winning move was executed on a 3-4 percent grade over the final 500 metres of the stage.

Implications for the Race

Del Toro’s win secures him the red leader’s jersey heading into Tuesday’s time trial. However, the time trial is expected to heavily favour Remco Evenepoel, who currently sits 10 seconds behind Del Toro in the general classification after collecting bonus seconds at the finish line.

Expert Insight: Del Toro’s unexpected stage win demonstrates the unpredictable nature of professional cycling. While pre-race favorites are often heavily favored, a single tactical decision or surge of power can dramatically alter the race dynamic.

The stage also saw a setback for Lidl-Trek’s Jonathan Milan, a top sprinter, who crashed in the finale but was able to finish the stage seemingly uninjured.

What’s Next?

Tuesday’s time trial presents a significant challenge for Del Toro, as Evenepoel is widely considered a specialist in the discipline. A strong performance from Evenepoel could see him take the overall lead. However, Del Toro’s unexpected victory proves he is a force to be reckoned with, and his performance in the time trial could determine whether he can maintain his position at the top of the leaderboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won stage 1 of the 2026 UAE Tour?

Isaac del Toro of UAE Team Emirates-XRG won stage 1 of the 2026 UAE Tour.

What kind of finish did stage 1 have?

Stage 1 finished with a lightly climbing rise to the line, with a 3-4 percent grade over the final 500 metres.

Who is currently wearing the red leader’s jersey?

Isaac del Toro is currently wearing the red leader’s jersey.

What does this early victory mean for the young Mexican rider and the overall dynamics of the 2026 UAE Tour?