Enric Mas looks ahead to his Vuelta a España defence, and life after cycling: 'I’m an athlete who’s had to work very hard'

Mas has lined up at the start of a Grand Tour fifteen times, and has finished in the top six eight times, including no fewer than four podium finishes in the Vuelta. However, after a disappointing debut in the Giro d’Italia, Mas proved—following Tadej Pogačar’s withdrawal—that he is still one of the best general classification riders. He finally won the Vuelta with effortless ease.

It wasn’t easy, but after many disappointments and injuries, his dream finally came true. “Above all, cycling has taught me humility,” he told Marca. “One day you’re on top, and the next day you lose. In those moments, my family, my friends, and the team have been invaluable. You have to keep working and keep dreaming, because in the end, dreams can come true.”

Mas is now 31 years old, but his red jersey actually gives him even more motivation. That’s why he hopes to defend his title there next year. “I’m an athlete who’s had to work very hard to achieve victories, and maybe that’s why I appreciate them even more. My challenge is to keep dreaming and to come back, to compete for big goals, especially in the Vuelta, my favourite race.”

At 31, he is one of Movistar’s more experienced riders. The team is making great strides towards the future, with Pavel Novack and Diego Pescador as its current climbing talents. In 2027, Mateo Ramírez and Javier Cubillas will join the ranks. Mas’s experience will be invaluable to the young climbers. Is there a better learning environment than under the wing of a Grand Tour winner?

Mas himself isn't ready to call it quits just yet. The Spaniard has a contract with Movistar until 2029, and he could keep going for a while longer. But he’s also already thinking hard about what his life might look like after his professional career. In any case, he hopes to stay involved in cycling for a while longer.

He hopes to start working as a manager. “The new generations bring different ideas and a healthy dose of self-confidence. I think we can learn a lot from them, too. And, looking ahead, I’d like to work as a manager alongside other riders, in a small group, so I can be very close to them and guide them on their journey.”