I Can’t Make Any Predictions” – Primož Roglič Plays It Cool When Asked if He’ll Support Tadej Pogačar in World Championships or Go for Glory Himself
In the world of professional cycling, where individual talent often collides with national pride, few scenarios are as captivating as two Slovenian powerhouses, Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar, teaming up at the World Championships. Both riders have etched their names into the annals of cycling history with multiple Grand Tour victories, thrilling head-to-head battles, and an undeniable presence in the sport. However, their rivalry, while respectful, has made the question of collaboration a fascinating one—especially as the World Championships loom.
When asked recently whether he would be willing to support his younger compatriot, Tadej Pogačar, in the race for the rainbow jersey, Primož Roglič gave a characteristically measured response: “I can’t make any predictions.”
The comment, while typical of Roglič’s calm and strategic demeanor, left fans and cycling pundits speculating. What role will Roglič play on race day? Will he selflessly throw his weight behind Pogačar, as some expect, or will he aim for personal glory in one of the sport’s most prestigious races?
Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar are no strangers to success on the global stage. Roglič, the 34-year-old veteran, has consistently proven himself a top contender in multi-week races, with victories in the Vuelta a España and the Giro d’Italia. Known for his remarkable time-trialing skills and his resilience, Roglič is an asset in any competition, whether he’s chasing a Grand Tour win or a one-day classic.
On the other hand, 25-year-old Tadej Pogačar represents the new wave of cycling talent. Pogačar has already won the Tour de France twice, and his aggressive, fearless style of racing has earned him widespread acclaim. He’s not just a general classification rider but a versatile competitor who can excel in stage races, one-day classics, and even time trials. His meteoric rise has made him one of the most exciting riders of his generation.
The prospect of these two Slovenian champions riding side by side at the World Championships is tantalizing, but it’s also rife with complexity.
Roglič and Pogačar’s relationship has always been a delicate balance of camaraderie and competition. At the 2020 Tour de France, the pair famously squared off in a duel that left the cycling world in awe. Roglič, who led the race heading into the penultimate stage, was dramatically overtaken by Pogačar in the individual time trial, handing the younger rider his first Tour de France victory.
That moment cemented their rivalry, but it also showed the mutual respect between the two. Roglič, despite losing the Tour, graciously congratulated Pogačar, displaying a level of sportsmanship that resonated with fans and fellow cyclists alike.
Since then, their paths have crossed numerous times, with both riders competing for national and personal glory. But the World Championships present a unique challenge: will they work together for the greater good of Slovenian cycling, or will they each aim to outshine the other?
The UCI Road World Championships are unlike any other race on the calendar. Riders trade their trade team colors for national jerseys, and the stakes are high—not just for personal victory but for national pride. The winner of the World Championships gets to wear the coveted rainbow jersey for an entire year, a symbol of cycling’s highest honor.
For Slovenia, a country that has rapidly ascended in the ranks of professional cycling, having two of the world’s top riders on the same team is both a blessing and a logistical challenge. If Roglič and Pogačar can set aside their individual ambitions and work together, they could dominate the race. But with both riders capable of winning on their own merits, the question remains: who will take the lead?
Primož Roglič’s reluctance to commit to a specific strategy ahead of the World Championships is not surprising. Throughout his career, Roglič has been known for his thoughtful, almost chess-like approach to racing. He is not one to make bold proclamations or reveal his hand before the right moment.
By saying, “I can’t make any predictions,” Roglič is keeping his cards close to his chest. He knows that cycling is an unpredictable sport, and anything can happen on race day. Injuries, weather conditions, and team dynamics can all influence the outcome, and Roglič prefers to assess the situation as it unfolds rather than making promises in advance.
Additionally, Roglič understands that supporting Pogačar doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing his own ambitions. In cycling, alliances can shift mid-race, and what begins as a supportive role can quickly turn into a bid for victory. If the race plays out in a way that favors Roglič’s strengths, he may well find himself in contention for the win.
Slovenia’s national team coach will have the difficult task of managing two of the sport’s biggest stars. A clear team strategy will be crucial, but it will also need to be flexible. Roglič’s ability to read a race and adapt on the fly is one of his greatest assets, and it’s possible that the team will adopt a dual-leadership approach, allowing both Roglič and Pogačar to play to their strengths.
If the race is hilly and selective, Pogačar may be the better bet. His explosive climbing ability and punchy riding style make him a favorite on tough, undulating courses. But if the race comes down to a time trial or a tactical finish, Roglič’s experience and composure could give him the edge.
In recent years, we’ve seen other national teams successfully manage two leaders in the World Championships. For example, Belgium has often employed a dual-leader strategy with Wout Van Aert and Remco Evenepoel, allowing the race dynamics to determine who takes the lead in the final stages. Slovenia could follow a similar approach, giving both Roglič and Pogačar the freedom to pursue victory depending on how the race unfolds.
As the World Championships approach, all eyes will be on Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar. Will they unite for the glory of Slovenia, or will their individual ambitions come to the fore? Roglič’s statement—“I can’t make any predictions”—perfectly encapsulates the uncertainty and excitement surrounding this year’s race.
For fans of cycling, the prospect of seeing these two titans of the sport in action together is thrilling. Whether Roglič supports Pogačar, or they both race for the win, one thing is certain: the World Championships will be a spectacle of top-level competition, and Slovenia will be at the center of it.
Whatever happens on race day, Roglič’s cool-headed approach and Pogačar’s aggressive style are sure to create a dynamic and unforgettable showdown. The world will be watching, and perhaps, just perhaps, we’ll witness a Slovenian 1-2 on the podium.
