Yoel de Paz Makes Triumphant Return to Win 2026 FEDME Vertical Spanish Cup

Yoel de Paz’s recent victory at the 2026 FEDME Vertical Spanish Cup is more than just a sporting achievement; it is a testament to his resilience. After a nerve injury in his instep sidelined him for the final three months of 2025, the La Palma native made a remarkable comeback in Losar de la Vera, finishing with a time of 41 minutes and 41 seconds. This win is particularly impressive given that the Nike Wild Trail Project athlete is now learning to compete while managing a chronic condition.

De Paz’s journey highlights the reality for many elite Spanish athletes who must balance the physical demands of their sport with full-time jobs—in his case, construction—and family life. His path back to the podium was far from easy. Beyond the uncertainty of his injury, he faced logistical hurdles during the race, including a poor starting position and a navigation error. Overcoming these setbacks proved his mental toughness and ability to handle pressure.

For De Paz, the months spent away from training were difficult, not just physically but emotionally, as he lost the social connection that comes with his daily routine. Now, he approaches every session with renewed appreciation. While he continues to manage his physical discomfort, his ability to compete at the highest level against full-time professional athletes confirms his status as a leading figure in Canary Islands trail running. As he looks to the future, his focus remains on returning to the peak form he displayed last year.