Colombia’s Juan Sebastián Molano of UAE Team Emirates-XRG finished second in the opening stage of the Tour de Hongrie, which got under way on 13th May, 2026 in Budapest. The stage was won by Belgium’s Tim Merlier of Soudal Quick-Step, while Phil Bauhaus of Bahrain Victorious claimed third place in the 143-kilometre opener.
The race began in front of the historic Gyula Castle, with 112 riders from 19 teams participating. UAE Team Emirates-XRG enters the competition under the leadership of French rider Benoît Cosnefroy and emerging Emirati cyclist Mohammed Al Mutaiwei, lining up alongside Vegard Stake Laengen, Rui Oliveira, Adrià Pericas, and Molano.
Covering a total distance of over 836 kilometres across five stages, the race increases in difficulty as the route heads east across Hungary. Several stages feature rolling terrain and technical finishes, providing opportunities for attacks and breakaways.
Stage four, from Mohács to Pécs, is expected to be decisive in the battle for the general classification. The final stage, with its twisting and varied route, could see late changes in the standings before concluding in Veszprém.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
