With the Vuelta a San Juan set to take place January 24-31, at least three world tours and several major pro teams are expected to travel to Argentina for the early season eight-day race.

According to Cycling News, Beulah Hansgrohe and Dečuninck-Quick Step will compete in the Vuelta a San Juan. Remco Evenpole won the 2020 race and could return to race in Argentina after his terrible crash at Il Lombardia.

With the Tour Down Under and Cadel Evans' Great Ocean Road race already cancelled, the Vuelta a San Juan will be the first major race of the 2021 season for the men.

Stages have not yet been finalized, but to simplify logistics and protect riders, most stages will start at the San Juan Billicum Motor Racing Circuit. The race traditionally includes a short time trial and a mountain finish in Alto Colorado at 2,565 meters elevation. The race will be broadcast live on Eurosport and other television stations.

Many leading teams have refused to face the risk of quarantine before or after the race in Australia, but special provisions will be made for the Vuelta a San Juan.

The race will be protected by a tight bubble, and riders and staff will be inspected before and during the race to facilitate travel. Athletes will also receive safe medical care with COVID-19 in case of crashes or illness.

"The San Juan government, Governor Sergio Uniac, and the Minister of Sports want the race to take place despite all the problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic," said race director Roberto Amadio, who said that Cycling News confirming the information received, told Tuttobiciweb.

"Fortunately, the number of COVID-19 infected people in San Juan is very low. This ensures that the race will take place."

Evenepoel made his pro debut at the 2019 Vuelta a San Juan and returned last year, winning early in the season. Evenepoel won the 15.5km time trial and successfully defended his lead in the Alto Colorado finish.

"We have a high-profile race planned, and since it is part of the UCI Pro Series calendar, WorldTour teams, professional teams, international continental teams, and even South American national teams that the UCI allows to participate to support cycling in South America participate," Amadio said.

"Many teams have plans for 2021 and they want to return to racing. The teams we have contacted have confirmed their interest. The race budget has been slightly reduced, but there will be three World Tour teams, possibly four, and four or five international pro teams. We hope to have 22 or 23 teams on the final starting list."

Cycling News will have a full report on the 2021 Vuelta a San Juan.

We will bring you cycling-related highlights from the Black Friday sale. Check out our Black Friday bike sale guide to find everything cycling-related, including bicycles, helmets, clothing, and more.

Deal of the Day: U.S.

Deal of the Day: U.K. [29]