Ever wondered why nearly every professional cycling team flocks to Spain for their winter training camps? It’s a shift that’s been years in the making, and former INEOS sports director Matteo Tosatto has the inside scoop. But here’s where it gets interesting: this wasn’t always the case. Just a few years ago, teams favored another Mediterranean country for their pre-season prep. So, what changed? Let’s dive in.
Matteo Tosatto, a cycling veteran with 20 professional seasons under his belt, has witnessed this transition firsthand. After a stellar career as a rider—including victories at the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France, and an impressive 34 Grand Tour participations—he seamlessly transitioned into roles as Sports Director for INEOS Grenadiers and later, Tudor Pro Cycling Team. In a recent interview with bici.pro, Tosatto reflected on this evolution: “Until 2005, Tuscany was the go-to destination, not just for us but for many foreign teams too. I remember Telekom, Rabobank, Lotto, and several French teams joining us.”
But why Spain now? According to Tosatto, it boils down to weather, infrastructure, and economics. Spain’s mild December temperatures, well-structured hotels with gyms and spacious parking, and quieter internal roads make it an ideal training hub. Add to that the cost-effectiveness, and it’s no wonder teams are flocking there. Tosatto notes, “Within a 50-kilometer stretch between Valencia and Alicante, you’ll find almost every top team in the world.”
And this is the part most people miss: Spain’s rise as the ultimate training destination didn’t happen overnight. Tosatto pinpoints the mid-2000s as the turning point. He praises the Canary Islands, particularly Gran Canaria, as the pinnacle of training locations. “It’s always between 18 and 26 degrees, with everything from long climbs to flat roads. It’s perfect for diverse training needs,” he explains.
But what about Italy? Some suggest southern Italy or Sicily as alternatives, but Tosatto has reservations. While Sicily’s climate is excellent, its roads and stray dogs pose challenges. Even Puglia, with its great climate and infrastructure, lacks the climbs teams now prioritize, even in December.
Here’s a controversial thought: Could Italy’s decline as a training hub be linked to the rise of traveling team chefs? Tosatto recalls a time when Italy’s cuisine was a major draw. “Foreigners were amazed by something as simple as a cappuccino,” he says. But with teams now bringing their own chefs, this advantage has faded.
Looking ahead, Tosatto reveals Tudor’s ambitious plans for 2026, targeting the full block of spring classics, including Milano-Sanremo, Amstel, and Liège. With a strengthened roster featuring riders like Stefan Küng and Luca Mozzato, the team is poised for success. But their ultimate spring goals? Flanders and Roubaix. “We have the team to do very well,” Tosatto asserts confidently.
So, is Spain truly the unbeatable training paradise? Or could another destination rise to challenge its dominance? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
