The peloton returns this Monday, 16 February, for the Clásica Jaén Paraíso Interior, one of Spain’s most distinctive early-season one-day races. Despite being just four years old, the gravel-heavy event has already attracted some of the biggest names in cycling — including Tadej Pogačar, who won in 2023 — and continues to grow in prestige on the international calendar.
Clásica Jaén Paraíso Interior: Spain’s Gravel Classic
Since its debut in 2022, the Clásica Jaén Paraíso Interior has quickly built a reputation as Spain’s answer to Strade Bianche, thanks to its demanding gravel sectors and punchy terrain. Positioned within Spain’s early-season racing block, the race serves a dual purpose: for some riders, it’s a key competitive goal; for others, it’s the perfect preparation for the Italian gravel Monument.
The inaugural edition was won by Alexey Lutsenko in 2022. A year later, Pogačar’s dominant victory elevated the race’s global profile. In 2024, Oier Lazkano claimed a breakthrough win from the breakaway, while former world champion Michał Kwiatkowski added further prestige with a strong comeback triumph 12 months ago.
2026 Startlist Headlined by Tom Pidcock
This year, British star Tom Pidcock tops the billing, reinforcing the race’s gravel appeal. He is joined by Spanish national champion Iván Romeo, as well as rising talents and proven contenders such as Jan Christen, Giulio Pellizzari, and Pello Bilbao.
However, a return from Pogačar appears unlikely in the near future. Race director Pascual Momparler explained that the Slovenian plans to race less and spend more time at home. Additionally, an early-season appearance at the UAE Tour would be the logical option given his ties to UAE Team Emirates.
Mathieu van der Poel: The Ultimate Target
Looking ahead, the race’s long-term ambition is clear: attract reigning cyclocross world champion Mathieu van der Poel.
Van der Poel — also a former gravel world champion — would be a natural fit for Jaén’s sterrato-style sectors. His explosive racing style and global popularity make him one of the most influential riders of the modern era, and a major coup for any 1.1-ranked event.
Momparler acknowledges the challenge. With top riders increasingly selective — whether targeting the spring Classics or Grand Tours like the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France — race organizers must negotiate well in advance to secure elite participation.
Still, the ambition is bold. The plan is to approach Van der Poel for a future edition, potentially 2027, with an attractive sporting and commercial proposal — similar to the successful recruitment of Pidcock this season.
As the Clásica Jaén Paraíso Interior continues to grow, its blend of gravel racing, WorldTour-level talent, and early-season spectacle ensures it remains one of Spain’s most exciting and strategically placed one-day races.
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