Dep. Legal A PM 42-2025 - 140 - 2004 - ISSN - ISSN 3015-1309 2488-1686
Mallorca I No. 2118 I 5 - 11 February 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Morgado wins Trofeu
Tourism at its peak High tourist-resident ratio
Trofeu Calvia kicks off Challenge Mallorca Credit: Instagram/ChallengeCiclistaMallorca
PORTUGUESE cyclist António Morgado claimed a dramatic victory at the Trofeu Calvià in Mallorca, opening the Challenge Mallorca series in wet and demanding conditions. The 148km race started and finished in Palmanova, drawing international teams, local fans and expatriates living across Spain to one of Europe’s most popular early-season cycling events. Riding for UAE Team Emirates–XRG, the 21-yearold attacked decisively in the closing kilometres as rain lashed the coastal roads of Calvia. Morgado bridged across to the leading group before powering away in a two-man sprint to take his first major win of the season, ahead of Spain’s Héctor Álvarez. Norway’s Adne Holter completed the podium. Persistent showers turned the Trofeu Calvia into a tactical race, with slippery descents and reduced visibility forcing teams to rethink their strategies. An early breakaway animated the middle of the race, but it was Morgado’s late acceleration that proved decisive. His composure in tough
Credit: Pexels Burkay Canatar
Opening competition race.
conditions underlined why he is considered one of Portugal’s brightest cycling prospects. For expatriates in Spain, the Challenge Mallorca is more than a sporting event. It highlights the island’s status as a global cycling hub and offers a welcome boost to local tourism during the winter months. With se-
veral races still to come, Morgado’s win sets the tone
for an exciting week of elite racing on Mallorcan roads.
MALLORCA has firmly established itself as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, welcoming visitors from across the globe who are drawn to its natural Popular Palma. beauty and exceptional lifestyle. Recent figures suggest the island now hosts around 29 visitors per every resident - a powerful reflection of its international appeal. While the local population has grown steadily, tourism has flourished at an even faster rate, particularly during the summer season when the island comes alive with energy and activity. The island’s strong tourism economy continues to create opportunities for investment, infrastructure improvements, and local businesses. Many experts see this moment as an opportunity - a chance to refine Mallorca’s tourism model in ways that protect its environment, enhance quality of life, and ensure the benefits of its success are shared widely.