Tadej Pogacar is back in action! After a well-deserved break, the Slovenian cycling sensation is gearing up for the next phase of his season in Canada. Pogacar, who has previously claimed victory in both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, will take the lead for UAE Team Emirates in the upcoming races. This marks his return to competitive cycling as he intensifies his preparations for the World Championships.
In an interview with the UAE Team Emirates official website, the 25-year-old expressed his excitement about resuming racing. “I’ve had a good break from racing and am eager to get back to it now starting in Canada,” Pogacar shared. He will be competing in the GP Quebec on September 13 and the GP Montreal on September 15, events where he looks forward to reliving the positive experiences he had two years ago in the stunning Canadian landscapes.
UAE Team Emirates will be fielding a formidable lineup for these races, including notable riders such as Tim Wellens, who previously won the GP Montreal, and the returning Juan Ayuso. The team also features Finn Fisher-Black, Rafal Majka, Igor Arrieta, and Domen Novak, making it a strong squad for the North American events. Pogacar acknowledged the competitive nature of the upcoming races, emphasizing the need for peak performance. “The level will be high as always, and we will need to be at our best,” he noted.
Pogacar reflected on his achievements this season, expressing contentment with his performance so far. “Whatever happens for the rest of the season, I can be happy with what I’ve achieved this year. Anything else will be a bonus,” he said. With his current form and focus on enjoying the remaining part of the season, Pogacar is poised to make a significant impact in the Canadian races.
In related news, Tom Pidcock will not be participating in the Canadian classics due to a concussion sustained during the Tour of Britain. Meanwhile, Julian Alaphilippe has opted out of the European Championships to focus on the Canadian events. As Pogacar returns to the peloton, cycling fans are eagerly anticipating how he will perform in these key races leading up to the World Championships.