Tadej Pogačar’s Next Challenges: Aiming for Two Prestigious Stage Races
In the world of professional cycling, few names shine as brightly as Tadej Pogačar’s. The young Slovenian, who has already made an indelible mark on the sport with two Tour de France victories, continues to captivate fans and competitors alike. As the cycling season progresses, the latest revelations from Pogačar’s business manager have set the cycling community abuzz: Pogačar has two stage races at the top of his checklist for upcoming seasons.
In a candid interview, Pogačar’s business manager discussed the rider’s focused approach to his racing calendar. “Tadej is not just about racing to race; he wants to win and he wants to win big,” he said. This statement aligns perfectly with the Slovenian star’s history and his approach to racing. Since bursting onto the professional scene, Pogačar has shown a remarkable ability to deliver top performances when it matters most, a trait that has earned him accolades and respect across the cycling world.
While his manager did not explicitly name the two stage races, speculation is rife among fans and analysts. Given Pogačar’s previous performances and interests, it is widely believed that these races are likely to be the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a España. Both races are steeped in history and present unique challenges that Pogačar seems eager to conquer.
1. **Giro d’Italia**: The Giro, known for its unpredictable weather, punishing climbs, and passionate fans, has long been considered one of the toughest races in cycling. For Pogačar, who has yet to compete in the Giro, this race represents a tantalizing new challenge. It would not only allow him to showcase his climbing prowess but also to test himself against a different field of competitors and conditions. The Giro’s reputation for dramatic, mountainous stages would likely play to Pogačar’s strengths, making it an exciting prospect for the young rider and his fans.
2. **Vuelta a España**: On the other hand, the Vuelta a España is a race that Pogačar knows well. His breakthrough in the 2019 Vuelta, where he won three stages and finished third overall, marked him as a future star of the sport. The Vuelta, with its typically late-season placement and grueling terrain, provides a different kind of test. For Pogačar, a return to the Vuelta could be an opportunity to demonstrate his growth and maturity as a rider. Winning this race would not only add another Grand Tour to his palmarès but also cement his reputation as a versatile champion capable of conquering the varied demands of the three Grand Tours.
Pogačar’s manager emphasized the importance of a balanced approach to these ambitions. “The aim is not to burn out early but to have a long, sustainable career,” he explained. This is a significant point, considering the physically and mentally taxing nature of Grand Tours. While the 25-year-old Slovenian has already achieved incredible success, maintaining peak performance over a long career requires careful planning and strategic choices. This perspective also explains why Pogačar might be selective about the races he targets, preferring to focus on a few key events rather than a crowded calendar.
With these two races potentially on the horizon, Pogačar’s training and preparation are expected to be as meticulous as ever. His approach to training is characterized by a focus on both quality and adaptability. Known for his ability to perform in all terrains, Pogačar’s training regimen is likely to be tailored to the specific demands of each race. For the Giro, this might mean an emphasis on high-altitude training and developing endurance for the extended climbs that are a hallmark of the Italian Grand Tour. For the Vuelta, preparation could include sharpening his explosive power for the short, steep ascents that often decide the race.
The role of Pogačar’s team, UAE Team Emirates, will be crucial in realizing these ambitions. The team has invested heavily in supporting Pogačar with a strong roster of riders capable of aiding him in both mountain and flat stages. This support will be essential in the Grand Tours, where team dynamics can make or break a rider’s chances. Moreover, the team’s strategic planning and race management will be key in navigating the complexities of a dual Grand Tour challenge.
As Tadej Pogačar sets his sights on these two prestigious stage races, he is clearly aiming to further solidify his legacy in cycling history. Success in both the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a España would make him one of the few riders to have won all three Grand Tours, a feat that would place him alongside legends like Eddy Merckx and Bernard Hinault. For Pogačar, the challenge is not just about winning races; it’s about building a legacy that transcends his individual achievements.
The coming seasons will undoubtedly be exciting for Pogačar and his fans. As he prepares for these new challenges, his every move will be closely watched by competitors and enthusiasts alike. Whether he can add the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España to his list of victories remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Tadej Pogačar’s journey is far from over, and the cycling world eagerly awaits the next chapter.
