Introduction to Tadej Pogacar and His Cycling Career
Tadej Pogacar, a 27-year-old cyclist from Slovenia, has established himself as one of the most dominant figures in professional cycling. With multiple Tour de France victories under his belt, including those in 2020, 2021, 2024, and 2025, Pogacar now sets his sights on an ambitious program for 2026.
Key Objectives for 2026
During a press conference in Benidorm, Spain, Pogacar outlined his primary goals for the upcoming season:
- A fifth Tour de France victory
- First triumphs in Milán-San Remo and París-Roubaix
He also mentioned participating in Strade Bianche, Tour of Flanders, Lieja-Bastoña-Lieja, and Tour of Romandía.
Prioritizing Classics Over the Vuelta a España
Interestingly, Pogacar did not mention any plans to compete in the Vuelta a España. When asked about choosing between París-Roubaix and the Tour de France, he stated:
“If I had to choose between winning Roubaix and the Tour, I’d pick Roubaix because I’ve already won four Tours. The gap between 0 and 1 is smaller than that between 4 and 5.”
París-Roubaix and Milán-San Remo are among the five cycling monuments that Pogacar has yet to win, making them key targets for 2026.
Recent Success and Future Aspirations
Pogacar recently secured a remarkable second-place finish in París-Roubaix, demonstrating his prowess on the cobblestones. With five Tour de France wins within reach, he aims to equal Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, and Jacques Anquetil’s record of five victories.
Teammates and Collaborations
Pogacar will be supported by a talented team in 2026, including young Mexican prospect Isaac del Toro. Del Toro, who finished second in the Giro this year, will make his Tour de France debut alongside Pogacar. The rider expressed his eagerness to learn from Pogacar and eventually reach a similar level.
“The team’s idea is for me to learn as much as possible by Tadej’s side, a level I hope to achieve one day.”
Portuguese cyclist Joao Almeida, who finished second in the latest Vuelta a España, will lead the team in the Giro and Vuelta instead of the Tour de France.
“It’s good to switch things up, and anyway, Tadej doesn’t need me to win the Tour.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What are Tadej Pogacar’s main goals for 2026? His primary objectives include a fifth Tour de France victory, first triumphs in Milán-San Remo and París-Roubaix, and participating in other significant races like Strade Bianche, Tour of Flanders, Lieja-Bastoña-Lieja, and Tour of Romandía.
- Why is Pogacar prioritizing classics over the Vuelta a España? He values the significance of winning París-Roubaix more than adding another Tour de France title, as he already has four victories in the race.
- Who are Tadej Pogacar’s teammates for 2026? His team includes young Mexican cyclist Isaac del Toro, who will make his Tour de France debut, and Portuguese cyclist Joao Almeida, who will lead the team in the Giro and Vuelta a España.
