Paris–Nice 2026, the famous “Race to the Sun”, runs from 8–15 March 2026, taking the peloton from northern France down to the Mediterranean finish in Nice.

The race traditionally marks the first major European stage race of the season, attracting a strong mix of Grand Tour contenders, puncheurs and sprinters.

How to Watch Paris–Nice – Race to the Sun

In the UK, Paris–Nice coverage is typically available on:

• Eurosport

• Discovery+

Live coverage usually begins late morning or early afternoon UK time, depending on the stage.

Jonas Vingegaard begins the race as the standout favourite. Riding for Team Visma–Lease a Bike, he will be especially dangerous in the mountain stages and arrives with a strong team including defending champion Matteo Jorgenson. Among the challengers, Juan Ayuso leads the ambitions of UAE Team Emirates, while riders such as Carlos Rodríguez and Oscar Onley could also challenge if the race opens up in the mountains.

The sprint stages should feature fast finishes from riders including Biniam Girmay, Phil Bauhaus, Pascal Ackermann and Bryan Coquard.

Paris–Nice 2026 Stage Results & Reports

Each stage below includes a race recap and highlight video.

Stage 1 – Achères → Carrières-sous-Poissy  – Result / Video Recap

Stage 2 – Épône → Montargis (187 km) – Result – Video Recap

Stage 3 – Team Time Trial (23.5 km)

Stage Report

The team time trial along the Loire Valley could create the first significant time gaps in the general classification.

Strong, well-organised teams may gain valuable seconds before the race heads into hillier terrain.

Stage 4 – Bourges → Uchon

Stage Report

The climb to Signal d’Uchon provides the race’s first summit finish and the first serious test for the general classification contenders.

Stage 5 – Cormoranche-sur-Saône → Colombier-le-Vieux

Stage Report

At over 200 km, this is the longest stage of the race and features rolling terrain ideal for aggressive racing and breakaway attempts.

Stage 6 – Barbentane → Apt

Stage Report

This stage heads into Provence, with punchy climbs and technical roads that could favour attackers or reduced bunch sprints.

Stage 7 – Nice → Auron (Queen Stage)

Stage Report

The summit finish at Auron should provide the decisive GC battle, with climbers attacking on the final ascent.

Stage 8 – Nice → Nice

Stage Report

The traditional final stage around Nice includes several steep climbs and often produces late attacks that reshape the final podium.

Paris–Nice 2026 General Classification

1. VINGEGAARD Jonas
2 MARTÍNEZ Daniel Felipe
3. STEINHAUSER Georg

Cycling Gear Inspired by Paris–Nice

Watching the Race to the Sun often inspires riders to get back on the bike after winter.

A few useful upgrades for early-season riding include:

• Photochromic cycling sunglasses for changing spring light

Product B07ZQGVKFD

• Gel-padded cycling gloves for comfort on rough roads

Product B06XJK527C

• Rechargeable bike lights for early morning training rides

Glangeh Bike Lights Ultra Slim, Rechargeable Bicycle Lights Front and Rear, 4+6 Modes Bike Light, Waterproof IP65 Cycle Lights for Road Safety, 1.5 Hrs Fast Charging Bike Light Cycling Headlights Set

£13.99

• A compact track pump with pressure gauge to keep tyres race-ready

VOGORA Bike Pump with Pressure Gauge, Bicycle Pump with Presta & Schrader Valves Bike Pump for all Bikes, Foot Pump for Car Tyres, Road Mountain Bikes & Balls

£12.74

Many riders also add a portable bike repair stand to make pre-season bike maintenance easier.