Said Cisneros, José Prieto, and the Tour de l’Avenir
The future of Mexican cycling is back in action on one of the world's most important stages.
This Thursday, August 20, marks the start of the 2026 Tour de l’Avenir, one of the most prestigious competitions for Under-23 cyclists and considered by many to be the "Tour de France for young riders." Over the course of seven stages, the category's top talents will tackle a 926-kilometer route stretching from Normandy to the Alps, with the final finish line in Italy.
Among them will be two Mexicans looking to make their own mark: Said Cisneros and José Juan Prieto.
Mexico is back in the spotlight.
The participation of both cyclists holds special significance for Mexico. In 2023, Isaac del Toro won the Tour de l’Avenir, turning the race into a stage where the world began to take notice of Mexican talent.
Three years later, a new generation is once again facing the same challenge.
Said Cisneros, the U23 national champion, enters the competition as a member of the Soudal Quick-Step Devo Team—one of international cycling’s premier development squads. His presence represents a fresh opportunity to demonstrate that Mexican talent can go toe-to-toe with cycling’s major powers.
Meanwhile, José Juan Prieto returns to the Tour de l’Avenir after playing a prominent role for Mexico in the previous edition. In 2025, he wore the mountains classification leader's jersey, showcasing his climbing prowess and proving he has what it takes to compete among the world's best young riders.
The Tour de l’Avenir: where the future begins
The history of the Tour de l’Avenir is filled with names that later became major figures in world cycling.
Greg LeMond, Miguel Induráin, Laurent Fignon, Nairo Quintana, Egan Bernal, and Tadej Pogačar are among the riders who used this competition as a platform to showcase their talent.
And, of course, Mexico now has its own chapter thanks to Isaac del Toro, winner of the 2023 edition.
That is why every edition of the Tour de l’Avenir raises the question: who will be the next big star?
In 2026, Said Cisneros and José Juan Prieto will have the opportunity to begin answering that question.
Your own story can also begin here.
The Tour de l’Avenir reminds us that all great cyclists were once young people with a dream and a bicycle.
At L’Étape México by Tour de France (presented by Finsus), we want you to have the chance to experience that feeling, too: tackling a challenging route, pushing past your limits, and feeling the thrill of crossing the finish line like a true cyclist.
Are you ready for your next challenge?
👉 SIGN UP FOR L’ÉTAPE MÉXICO—SEE YOU ON THE ROAD.
