Unstoppable Tadej Pogačar Reflects on Epic Tour de France Victory and His Uncertain Cycling Future

Tadej Pogačar is eyeing the Vuelta a España. Who wouldn’t want to race in Spain for three weeks, especially with a side trip to Italy? It’s a title he hasn’t snagged yet, and he’s eager to add it to his list of accomplishments. Given his stunning performance in the Tour de France, where he’s on the verge of clinching his fourth victory, it seems possible.

But there’s a catch: Pogačar is fatigued. After weeks of intense competition, he’s shown signs of exhaustion during press conferences. Even with a solid lead and four stage wins, the demands of the Tour weigh heavily on him.

The last stretch of the Tour has been challenging, especially Stage 20, which featured tough weather and a tricky route. His rival, Jonas Vingegaard, summed it up perfectly: “It was a miserable day. We should have brought swimming goggles. It was hard, but we made it through.”

Pogačar agreed, calling this Tour particularly grueling. “Every year feels tough, but this one was on another level,” he said. His enthusiasm shines through despite the exhaustion: “I really enjoyed this year, and I’m excited for the final day.”

Initially, he planned to compete in both the Tour and the Vuelta after his Giro and Tour double last year. However, a change in circumstances has him reconsidering. “We’ll decide in a few days,” he noted, suggesting that it won’t be an easy choice. “I’d love to ride the Vuelta, but let’s see what happens.”

He’s unsure when he’ll get back on the bike, joking about possibly just enjoying summer instead. Yet, there’s still the grand finale in Paris to think about, and it’s no ordinary ride. This year’s stage includes some climbs, making it an exciting prospect for Pogačar.

His sports director, Marco Marcato, hinted at the chance of making history on the Champs-Élysées. “Winning in yellow there is special,” he remarked, leaving the door open for a thrilling finish.

With one more day left in this year’s Tour, Pogačar seems to be weighing his options. Will he race in the Vuelta on August 23 in Turin, or will he take a well-deserved break? Only time will tell, but whatever he decides, he has certainly earned it.



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