Ecuadorian cyclists shine in international races

Ecuadorian cycling is celebrating a successful day with three national riders achieving notable results in major international competitions on Sunday, June 21, 2026. Richard Carapaz earned a strong second-place finish in the prestigious Tour de Suisse, while his compatriot Jonathan Narváez secured a stage victory in the same event. Adding to the triumphs, young talent Mateo Ramírez claimed the runner-up position in the Giro d'Italia Next Gen, the under-23 tour.

Carapaz, known as 'La Locomotora del Carchi,' demonstrated his enduring form in the Tour de Suisse, finishing just behind world number one Tadej Pogačar. Carapaz was six minutes and 32 seconds behind the Slovenian winner, who completed the race in 15 hours, eight minutes, and 43 seconds. Narváez, riding as a key support rider for Pogačar, finished fourth in the points classification and 22nd overall, but notably won the third stage of the Tour de Suisse.

Meanwhile, the Giro d'Italia Next Gen concluded on the same day, with 20-year-old Mateo Ramírez representing UAE Emirates. Ramírez secured a commendable second place in the general classification, finishing two minutes and 10 seconds behind the winner, Lorenzo Finn of Red Bull Bora. Ramírez's performance marks a significant achievement for the young Ecuadorian cyclist.

Looking ahead, both Carapaz and Narváez are preparing for the Tour de France, which begins on July 4, 2026. Carapaz is expected to compete with EF Easypost, marking his return to the race after a previous absence. He aims to replicate his success from 2024, where he won the mountains classification jersey. Narváez's participation in the Tour de France is yet to be officially confirmed, though he was a support rider for Pogačar in the 2025 edition.