Spanish cyclist Juan Ayuso claimed overall victory at the 52nd edition of the Volta ao Algarve after winning the decisive fifth stage to Alto do Malhão on February 22, confirming his dominance in one of Portugal’s most prestigious cycling races.
Riding for Lidl Trek, Ayuso completed the 148.5 kilometre route from Faro to the summit finish in Loulé in 3 hours 20 minutes and 2 seconds. He crossed the line ahead of Scotland’s Oscar Onley of INEOS and France’s Paul Seixas of Decathlon, who finished with the same stage time. Portuguese rider João Almeida of UAE Emirates placed fourth on the stage, four seconds behind the leading trio.
The final climb to Malhão once again proved decisive in shaping the general classification. Ayuso, who had already entered the stage wearing the race leader’s jersey, controlled the decisive moments of the ascent and responded to attacks with composure. His acceleration near the summit secured both the stage win and the overall title.
Ayuso finished the five day race with a cumulative time of 15 hours 51 minutes and 12 seconds. Paul Seixas secured second place overall, finishing 14 seconds behind the Spaniard. João Almeida completed the podium in third place, 59 seconds off the winning time, delivering a strong performance in front of home supporters.
The Volta ao Algarve is considered one of the most competitive early season stage races in Europe, attracting WorldTour teams and leading contenders preparing for larger spring objectives. The Algarve’s varied terrain, including flat coastal stages and demanding inland climbs, provides a balanced test of endurance, climbing ability and team strategy.
For Ayuso, the victory reinforces his status as one of the most promising riders in international cycling. At just 23 years old, he continues to build on previous successes and establish himself among the leading figures of the peloton. His ability to defend the leader’s position under pressure on the final day demonstrated tactical maturity and climbing strength.
The race also marked a competitive showing for Portuguese cycling, with João Almeida remaining in contention throughout the week and finishing on the overall podium. Almeida’s consistency across stages kept local interest high, particularly during the closing kilometres at Malhão, a climb known for producing dramatic finishes in past editions.
The 52nd edition of the Volta ao Algarve once again delivered a strong international field and competitive racing conditions, reinforcing the event’s importance within the European cycling calendar. With challenging profiles and high level participation, the race continues to serve as a benchmark for riders aiming to peak later in the season.
