Tadej Pogačar has only raced for 16 days so far in 2026, but he looked beyond simple statistics to make it clear he is ready for the 2026 Tour de France as he spoke about his ambitions for the next three weeks.
"I feel pretty good. I only did 16 days of racing, but the training kilometres also count, and there have been a lot, so I think we're ready," Pogačar said.
The Slovenian won Strade Bianche, Milan-San Remo, the Tour of Flanders, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and was second in Paris-Roubaix in a unique, complex and long Spring Classics campaign that ended before his victory at the Tour de Romandie.
After a break and a three-week altitude camp, he won the Tour de Suisse, putting him on track to target a fifth Tour victory.
Pogačar has often shaken up his race programme and goals, but the Tour de France remains central to his season. The race is the biggest goal of his UAE Team Emirates-XRG squad, which has dominated the sport thanks to the Slovenian. Their respect is reciprocal.
"I've enjoyed racing all my life, but I enjoy it maybe even more because I stay in the same team with the same riders and same people around me," Pogačar said, in a sign of loyalty.
The 2026 Tour de France is again expected to be a battle with Jonas Vingegaard, but Pogačar warned against simplifying the GC battle.
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"The competition between me and Jonas in the last few years was spectacular, and I think it will continue for a few more years. I hope so," Pogačar said.
Pogačar shared the press conference stage with Isaac del Toro, and the Mexican was asked three questions in Spanish as recognition of his status and potential. Del Toro made it clear he was riding in support of Pogačar on his Tour debut, but Pogačar seemed to enjoy hyping up Del Toro's chances.
"I don't think he (Vingegaard) is the only one who can come close; there are a few guys here who can aim for the victory, including this guy next to me," Pogačar said.
When asked as a final question what Pogačar hoped for the next three weeks, he replied mischievously: "That Isaac wins the Tour de France."
Be careful what you wish for, Tadej.
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