The Unstoppable Sepp Kuss: Why Three Grand Tours in One Season Isn’t Just Madness—It’s Genius
There’s something almost poetic about Sepp Kuss’s decision to tackle the Vuelta a España this year, marking his third Grand Tour of 2026. In a sport where most riders would cringe at the mere thought of such a feat, Kuss seems to thrive on the absurdity of it all. Personally, I think this isn’t just about physical endurance—it’s a testament to his mental fortitude and a deeper love for the sport that most of us can’t fully grasp.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Kuss defies the conventional wisdom of cycling. Few riders dare to attempt all three Grand Tours in a single season, let alone succeed. But Kuss isn’t just any rider. In 2023, he didn’t just survive the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, and Vuelta a España—he dominated, clinching the red jersey in Spain. That’s not luck; that’s a masterclass in strategy, resilience, and sheer willpower.
The Vuelta: Kuss’s Playground
One thing that immediately stands out is Kuss’s affinity for the Vuelta. While other riders might see it as a grueling end to an already exhausting season, Kuss views it as his home turf. The heat, the steep climbs, the late-summer timing—it all aligns perfectly with his racing style. What many people don’t realize is that the Vuelta’s position in the calendar actually favors riders like Kuss, whose engine seems to hum louder as the season progresses. It’s not just about physical conditioning; it’s about timing and understanding your body’s rhythm.
From my perspective, this is where Kuss’s genius lies. He’s not just a climber; he’s a strategist. While others might peak too early or burn out by August, Kuss is just hitting his stride. His 54 race days this season might sound like a recipe for fatigue, but for him, it’s a warm-up. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t recklessness—it’s calculated risk-taking at its finest.
Team Dynamics and the Hunt for Stage Wins
This year, Kuss isn’t gunning for the overall win at the Vuelta. Instead, Visma-Lease a Bike has set its sights on stage victories, a shift in strategy that’s both pragmatic and exciting. With Wout van Aert and Matthew Brennan by his side, Kuss is part of a trio that could light up the race in ways we haven’t seen before. What this really suggests is that Kuss is evolving as a rider, adapting to new roles and challenges without losing his edge.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the absence of Matteo Jorgenson from the roster. After a disappointing Tour de France, Jorgenson’s exclusion isn’t just a tactical decision—it’s a reminder of how unforgiving professional cycling can be. Meanwhile, Kuss’s consistency and versatility have made him indispensable. This raises a deeper question: In a sport where burnout is almost inevitable, how does Kuss keep reinventing himself?
The Psychological Edge
What makes Kuss’s story even more compelling is the psychological dimension. In 2023, he navigated a team leadership conflict with Primož Roglič and Jonas Vingegaard to emerge victorious. That’s not just about physical strength; it’s about mental toughness and emotional intelligence. Personally, I think this is where Kuss truly stands out. He’s not just a rider; he’s a leader, a problem-solver, and a competitor who thrives under pressure.
This year, with Vingegaard out and Pogačar looming as the favorite, Kuss isn’t expected to challenge for the overall win. But here’s the thing: underestimating Kuss has never been a good idea. His ability to adapt, to find opportunities where others see obstacles, is what makes him so dangerous. If history is any indication, he’ll find a way to leave his mark on this race, even if it’s not in the way we expect.
The Broader Implications
Kuss’s decision to race all three Grand Tours again isn’t just a personal challenge—it’s a statement about the evolving nature of cycling. In an era where specialization is the norm, Kuss is a throwback to a different time, when riders like Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault pushed the limits of what was thought possible. But he’s also a pioneer, proving that with the right approach, the impossible can become routine.
What this really suggests is that cycling is entering a new era, one where riders like Kuss are redefining what it means to be a competitor. It’s not just about winning; it’s about pushing boundaries, testing limits, and inspiring the next generation. From my perspective, Kuss isn’t just a rider—he’s a phenomenon, a living example of what’s possible when talent meets tenacity.
Final Thoughts
As Kuss lines up for the Vuelta a España this weekend, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe. This isn’t just another race for him; it’s a continuation of a journey that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about competition. Personally, I think we’re witnessing something special—a rider who’s not just at the top of his game but also redefining what the game itself can be.
So, will Kuss conquer the Vuelta again? Maybe, maybe not. But one thing’s for sure: he’ll give it everything he’s got, and that’s what makes him unstoppable. If you take a step back and think about it, that’s the essence of greatness—not just winning, but the relentless pursuit of something greater than yourself. And in that sense, Sepp Kuss is already a champion.
