The picturesque city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna was abuzz with excitement this past Sunday as it played host to the thrilling conclusion of the 65th Vuelta Ciclista a la Isla de Tenerife. This year’s event marked a much-anticipated return after a three-year hiatus, and it did not disappoint. José María Martín, representing Team Extremadura–Pebetero, emerged victorious as the overall champion, while local favorite José Carlos Suárez from Tenerife Bike Point delighted fans with a spectacular stage win.

Martín’s Commanding Performance Throughout the Tour

José María Martín, a seasoned cyclist and national elite champion, entered the competition with high hopes, buoyed by his recent successes in prestigious events such as the Copa de España and the Vuelta a Ávila. From the very beginning, he set a formidable pace, securing the fastest time in the initial time trial. This impressive performance allowed him to don the coveted leader’s jersey right from the start, a position he would expertly defend throughout the three-day event.

The final stage of the race featured a demanding 43 km urban circuit in La Laguna, where the Extremadura–Pebetero team showcased their tactical prowess. They effectively controlled the race tempo, ensuring that their leader remained shielded from aggressive maneuvers by rival teams. The technical nature of the course, with its sharp turns and rapid accelerations, posed a significant challenge for all competitors. However, Martín’s extensive experience and strategic acumen allowed him to navigate these obstacles with finesse, culminating in his victory in the regularity classification.

Suárez’s Home Turf Triumph

The conclusion of the Vuelta was particularly special for the local cycling community, as José Carlos Suárez achieved a thrilling victory in the final sprint. His win not only electrified the enthusiastic crowd but also secured him third place in the overall standings, along with the prestigious title of best Canary Island cyclist of the event. Suárez’s performance was a testament to his skill and determination, and it resonated deeply with the local fans who rallied behind him throughout the race.

The circuit’s design, featuring long straights and opportunities for intermediate sprints, required teams to adopt proactive and strategic approaches. Manuel Rodríguez, also representing Extremadura–Pebetero, excelled in the intermediate sprints, ultimately claiming the sprint jersey. Meanwhile, Aleix Sierra from Lleida Pedros showcased his climbing abilities by being awarded the mountain prize, adding to the competitive spirit of the event.

A Triumphant Return and Community Engagement

Despite the circuit’s modest elevation, which ranged from 549 to 560 meters, the continuous accelerations presented a significant challenge for the cyclists. The enthusiastic turnout of fans along the route transformed the event into a vibrant celebration of cycling, with spectators cheering passionately for their favorite riders. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted love for the sport.

The organizers expressed heartfelt gratitude for the successful return of the race, acknowledging the vital support from the Cabildo de Tenerife, IDECO, and Deportes Tenerife, all of which play crucial roles in the event’s legacy. Their contributions were instrumental in ensuring that the race not only returned but thrived, fostering a sense of camaraderie and excitement among participants and fans alike. Additionally, Extremadura–Pebetero was recognized as the best team of this edition, further solidifying their status in the cycling community.

Final Standings and Awards

The 65th Tenerife Cycling Tour concluded with a display of remarkable talent and sportsmanship, as the final standings highlighted the achievements of the top competitors. The awards ceremony celebrated not only the champions but also the various categories that showcased the diverse skills of the cyclists.

Key points

• 1st José María Martín (Extremadura–Pebetero)
• 2nd Corentin Dufort (Lescar VS)
• 3rd José Carlos Suárez (Tenerife Bike Point – La Sede)

• Stage 3 Winner: José Carlos Suárez
• Stage 2 Winner: Aleix Sierra
• Stage 1 Winner: José María Martín
• Best Canary Island Cyclist: José Carlos Suárez
• Provincial Mountain Champion: Adrián Trujillo
• Mountain Jersey: Aleix Sierra
• Sprint Jersey: Manuel Rodríguez
• Regularity Jersey: José María Martín
• Best Team: Extremadura–Pebetero