Just In:Pogačar: Paris-Roubaix Not Yet on the Agenda, Vuelta Comes First”

Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian cycling sensation, has once again captivated the world of professional cycling with his insights into his race calendar for the upcoming season. In a recent statement, Pogačar expressed that while he does not currently have Paris-Roubaix on his radar, the Vuelta a España is firmly in his sights for the near future. This revelation, made by the two-time Tour de France champion, has sparked both curiosity and speculation in the cycling world, as fans and pundits eagerly await to see how Pogačar’s calendar will evolve in the coming months.

Pogačar’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for his versatility, strength, and strategic brilliance, the 25-year-old has already achieved significant success in both stage races and one-day classics. His ability to conquer the most prestigious cycling events, including the Tour de France, has placed him at the top of the sport. However, despite his dominance in the Grand Tours and his growing reputation in the one-day races, Pogačar’s statement regarding Paris-Roubaix shows that he is not yet ready to add this legendary race to his résumé.

Pogačar’s Current Focus: The Vuelta a España

In his recent comments, Pogačar made it clear that the Vuelta a España is a key objective for him in the near future. The Vuelta, the final Grand Tour of the season, has often been a race where riders go for redemption or attempt to extend their season’s successes. For Pogačar, this race could represent another opportunity to cement his legacy in the world of cycling.

After his historic victories in the Tour de France in 2020 and 2021, Pogačar has shown his ability to perform consistently across different terrains and race formats. His ambition for the Vuelta aligns with his goal of continuing to dominate in Grand Tours, and many expect him to make a strong bid for the title. The Vuelta has often been a venue for some of the most thrilling cycling battles, with its demanding climbs and unpredictable weather conditions. It is a race where the strongest all-around riders can excel, and Pogačar’s talent and grit make him a formidable contender.

In past seasons, Pogačar has already demonstrated that he is more than capable of competing in stage races outside of the Tour de France. He won the 2022 edition of the UAE Tour, a key stage race in the early season, and his performances in races like Tirreno-Adriatico and the Tour of Flanders have only underscored his growing prowess across different disciplines. While Paris-Roubaix may be a race for later years, the Vuelta could very well be a critical milestone for Pogačar’s continued growth and success in cycling.

The Challenge of Paris-Roubaix

Paris-Roubaix, often referred to as “The Hell of the North,” is one of the most grueling one-day races in the world. Known for its cobblestone sections, brutal terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions, the race is a true test of endurance and mental toughness. For many riders, Paris-Roubaix is the pinnacle of the one-day classics, and it has a long history of producing legendary performances.

However, the nature of Paris-Roubaix is vastly different from the stage races that Pogačar has excelled in, such as the Tour de France or the Vuelta. While Pogačar has shown his skill in one-day races like the Tour of Flanders, where he finished second in 2021, the technical demands and sheer physical toughness required for Paris-Roubaix are something that require time to master. The race’s punishing cobblestones, constant position battles, and need for strategic teamwork make it a unique and demanding challenge, one that even the most talented riders must approach with careful planning.

In his statement, Pogačar acknowledged that he is not yet thinking of Paris-Roubaix, suggesting that the race is not currently on his agenda. This is a pragmatic approach from a rider who has always been focused on the long-term development of his career. While his ambitions for the classics are growing, he is not rushing into the race just yet. Instead, Pogačar seems content to continue honing his skills and focusing on races where he can excel in the short term, like the Vuelta.

The Possibility of a Shift in Focus

Despite Pogačar’s current stance, it is important to remember that cycling is a dynamic sport. Riders often adjust their calendars and objectives based on form, team dynamics, and race developments. While Paris-Roubaix may not be in Pogačar’s immediate future, the door is certainly not closed. If Pogačar’s form in the upcoming season reaches new heights and he feels ready to tackle the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix, a shift in his focus is certainly within the realm of possibility.

Pogačar’s team, UAE Team Emirates, is known for its strategic flexibility, and they have supported his pursuit of numerous victories across a range of race types.