A Shift in Training Grounds: Unveiling the Secrets of Spain's Cycling Dominance
Why has Spain become the go-to destination for nearly every professional cycling team's winter training camps? It's a question that has intrigued many in the cycling world, and the answers might just surprise you.
Matteo Tosatto, a former professional rider and now a sports director, has witnessed this transformation firsthand. With a career spanning 20 seasons and an impressive 34 Grand Tours under his belt, Tosatto offers a unique perspective on the evolution of training camp locations.
But here's where it gets controversial... Tosatto attributes the shift from Italy to Spain to a combination of weather, infrastructure, and economics. He explains, "A little change in climate, a need for better infrastructure, and Spain's growth as a cycling hub have all played a role. The Canary Islands, in particular, offer the perfect conditions for pre-season training."
So, what makes Spain so appealing? Tosatto highlights the excellent temperatures in December, well-structured hotels with amenities like gyms and spacious parking, and quieter internal roads with less traffic. The economics also favor Spain, with competitive pricing for cyclists. "Sometimes I went alone for specific work, and the convenience was remarkable," he adds.
And this is the part most people miss... Tosatto praises Gran Canaria as the ultimate training destination. "It's always between 18 and 26 degrees, and you can do it all - long climbs, short climbs, flat roads. It's the best place of all."
But why did Italy lose its appeal? Tosatto suggests that while southern Italy, especially Sicily, offers excellent climate conditions, the roads and traffic can be a challenge. He also mentions the presence of stray dogs, which can pose a problem for cyclists. However, he praises the beauty of Mount Etna's climb, emphasizing the need for varied training routes.
What about other Italian regions? Tosatto recalls a trip to Puglia with Quick Step, noting its potential as a pre-season hub due to its climate and infrastructure. However, the lack of climbs and the need for early quality work in December make Spain a more attractive option.
Food for thought... Tosatto highlights how Italy's renowned cuisine once attracted foreign teams. "Foreigners were amazed by a simple cappuccino!" he exclaims. But with the rise of traveling team chefs, this advantage has diminished.
When it comes to the best and worst training locations, Tosatto has clear favorites. He declares Gran Canaria as the overall winner, praising its facilities, training quality, and climate. As for the least pleasant experience, he recalls a week in Corsica in January 2013, where five days of rain and wind made training challenging, especially with the rigorous standards of Bjarne Riis.
From a technical standpoint, has the training methodology evolved? Tosatto believes not. "The first camp in December is still about building the group, as it's the only time of year when everyone is present. You focus on endurance without intensity. The second camp in January is more specific in terms of workload, with different groups formed based on race schedules."
Looking ahead to 2026, Tosatto's Tudor Pro Cycling Team has big plans. They aim to tackle the full block of spring classics, with a focus on Milano-Sanremo and the addition of quality riders like Stefan Küng and Luca Mozzato. Tosatto concludes, "Flanders and Roubaix are our big spring goals. I'm confident we have the team to excel."
So, there you have it - a glimpse into the world of professional cycling's training secrets. What are your thoughts on Spain's dominance as a training hub? Do you think other countries could offer similar advantages? Feel free to share your opinions and insights in the comments below!
