Patience is key for Del Toro: "The fact that I'm here means I belong here"

"I don’t feel it as pressure or responsibility, but rather the opposite. This is one of the best teams in the world, and the fact that I’m here means I have the level to be here," he said confidently in an interview with Marca.

Del Toro won the Tour de l'Avenir in 2023 and later chose to join UAE Team Emirates, despite interest from other teams like Movistar. So far, it has proven to be a great decision. The young Mexican has already demonstrated his talent in major races, finishing third in the Tour Down Under, fourth in Tirreno-Adriatico, and seventh in the Tour of the Basque Country.

His biggest goal for this season is the Giro d’Italia. Having experienced riders like Tadej Pogačar, João Almeida, and Juan Ayuso around him has helped him settle into the pro ranks. The team is also fully supporting his progress. "They just tell me not to stress too much and that everything will come with time. They have complete confidence in how I do things, and honestly, that makes me nervous because they make everything seem so easy. But they always try to bring a sense of calm so I can keep improving step by step."

Del Toro recently extended his contract with UAE until 2029! Over the next few years, he aims to develop into a general classification rider, but he also has ambitions to perform well at the World Championships. "I feel very valued as a Mexican. The fans are incredible. I don’t know why they love me so much, but I feel truly appreciated, and that gives me a sense of responsibility. That’s why I always try to give my best—to honor the people who have supported me in my career because I feel they deserve it. I’ve always been proud to be Mexican and to do things the way my family and good friends have taught me."

When it comes to his own strengths as a rider, Del Toro remains humble, not wanting to label himself as a climber or a time trialist. "I just try to do everything as well as possible. Some people think I’m a good climber, or maybe strong in time trials, but I don’t see it that way. I focus more on doing things well and worrying about how to do that. I don’t know if I’m particularly good at anything, but I do know that I care a lot about being at the front—and that’s what keeps me up at night."