L'Étape Argentina returns to Córdoba on 22 March 2026, offering amateur cyclists a Tour de France-branded mountain challenge across the Sierras de Córdoba. The event, organised under ASO standards, uses Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes as its hub for both the Gran Fondo and Medio Fondo distances.
The long course covers 134km with around 2,000m of climbing, while the shorter option covers 64km with a more manageable 670m of elevation gain. Both routes feature closed roads, neutral mechanical support and timed segments for KOM (King of the Mountains) and sprint classifications.
Route and Terrain
Riders depart the stadium at around 460m elevation before a fast, flat urban rollout toward the Sierras. The Gran Fondo then climbs through the Punilla Valley region, with sustained gradients and several categorised ascents before technical descents back toward the city.
The 134km long course
The 64km short course
The climbing phase features long, steady gradients. Previous editions have included passes with gradients between 6% and 10% over distances of 5–10km. The return leg typically exposes riders to the Viento Norte, Córdoba's prevailing north wind, which can create significant headwinds during the final 30km.
The Medio Fondo covers less distance and elevation than the Gran Fondo. It shares the initial kilometres before diverting onto a shorter climbing loop.
Operations and Support
Wave starts begin at 07:00 for the long course, with corrals assigned by predicted finishing time or previous results. Feed zones are positioned every 30–40km, offering hydration, energy bars and local snacks. Neutral service vehicles patrol the route, with fixed mechanical stations at each feed zone.
A broom wagon follows the final riders, and time cuts apply at checkpoints. The organisers indicate a limit of around seven to eight hours for the Gran Fondo, with time cuts enforced at intermediate checkpoints.
Conditions and Preparation
March weather in Córdoba typically brings highs of 26°C and lows around 14°C. Afternoon showers are possible but usually brief. Sunrise falls at approximately 07:15, meaning the Gran Fondo start occurs in full daylight.
Road surfaces vary between smooth highways and coarser secondary roads in the mountains. Tyres of 25mm or 28mm width are recommended. A lightweight gilet is commonly used for the descents, where temperatures drop and speeds increase on technical switchbacks.
Gearing should account for sustained climbing at altitude. Compact chainsets with a 34×32 or similar low gear will be a sensible choice for all but the most competitive riders. For the return leg, riders often form groups to reduce exposure to the wind.
Logistics
Córdoba's Pajas Blancas airport sits 10km from the stadium, with direct flights from Buenos Aires, Santiago and several international hubs. Hotels in the Villa Belgrano and Chateau Carreras neighbourhoods offer proximity to the start, while Villa Carlos Paz provides accommodation for those combining the event with tourism in the valleys.
Bib collection opens at the L'Étape Village on Friday and Saturday, where the expo includes official merchandise and Tour de France memorabilia. Post-ride celebrations at the stadium feature podium ceremonies and local food, including choripán.
Córdoba has an established cycling culture, and drivers are accustomed to pelotons, though training rides before the event can involve buses on open roads.
Find entry details at L'Etape Argentina's official site
