Pogacar Prioritizes Recovery, Skips Vuelta a España after Tour Triumph

Tadej Pogacar has announced he will not participate in the upcoming Vuelta a España, choosing instead to take a break following his recent victory at the Tour de France. The Slovenian cyclist, riding for UAE Team Emirates, secured his fourth Tour title on July 30, 2023, after three weeks of intense competition. Despite his success, Pogacar acknowledged that fatigue set in during the closing days of the event.

Pogacar, 26, previously claimed Tour de France titles in 2020, 2021, and 2022. His decision to skip the Vuelta, scheduled to take place from August 23 to September 14, 2023, was confirmed in a statement he released late on Tuesday. The rider emphasized the importance of recovery following such a demanding race.

Pogacar’s Focus on Upcoming Races

In his statement, Pogacar expressed enthusiasm for returning to competition at the one-day races in Quebec and Montreal in September. He noted that these events align well with his racing style, offering both challenges and scenic courses. Following these races, Pogacar will shift his attention to the UCI Road World Championships in Rwanda, where he will defend his title.

“After such a demanding Tour, we decided it was best to take a break,” Pogacar stated. “The Vuelta is, of course, a race I would dearly love to return to. I have fantastic memories there from 2019, but now the body is telling me to rest.”

Pogacar made his Vuelta a España debut in 2019, where he achieved three stage wins and secured the young rider classification. Despite his previous successes, he is yet to capture the overall title in this prestigious race.

With his sights set on the upcoming competitions, Pogacar aims to regain his competitive edge in time for the World Championships, demonstrating a strategic approach to his training and race schedule. His decision reflects a growing emphasis on athlete well-being in the demanding world of professional cycling. As he gears up for the challenges ahead, fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how this break influences his future performances.