Key Takeaways:
– The likely return of Tadej Pogačar to the Vuelta a España is being discussed for 2025.
– The decision hangs in the balance with the route and stage details for Vuelta revealed.
– Pogačar is expected to decide on whether to participate in Vuelta or go for a successful repeat of 2024’s Giro-Tour de France ‘double’.
Luxury of Choice – Vuelta or Giro-Tour Double?
Talks are on the horizon within the UAE Team Emirates about Tadej Pogačar’s potential participation in the 2025 Vuelta a España. Despite the possibility of Pogačar attempting another victorious Giro-Tour de France ‘double’ next year, the announcement of the Vuelta route could sway this decision. It’s a setup that’s widely expected to appeal to the Slovenian, with challenging elements such as the daunting Angliru ascent and the Bola del Mundo climb featured only a day before the finish line in Madrid. With ten mountain finishes on the cards, it certainly has the appeal of a genuine Vuelta race, as noted by team manager, Joxean Fernández Matxin.
Decision on the Horizon
While full details of the Giro will only be revealed on January 13, there is a strong buzz suggesting that a decision regarding Pogačar’s dilemma between the Giro and Vuelta might arrive sooner. This comes following the public acknowledgement of much of the Vuelta route, including strenuous ascents such as Angliru and Farrapona. What still remained secret was the stage 20 climb of the Bola del Mundo. This information appeared only on the day of the presentation. Now, with a clearer vision of what the race entails, UAE team is moving closer towards finalizing Pogačar’s schedule for 2025.
Race Setup Unveiled
What caught particular attention was the mention of a time-trial immediately following the transfer of the fourth stage. The race organizers had managed to surprise everyone and keep it under wraps till now. Meanwhile, Matxin certainly looks forward to discussing the race strategy with Pogačar. Inside the team, they already have a fair idea about what to expect. The strong belief within the team circles is the Slovenian’s eventual participation in the Vuelta a España. Regardless of when it happens, the aim is clear—Pogačar should have the Vuelta in his palmares.
Racing Glory and Personal mementos
It’s worth mentioning that Pogačar’s last appearance in Vuelta was back in 2019 where he bagged the third position overall, won three stages and secured himself as the Best Young Rider in his first Grand Tour. The 2025 Vuelta route and its ascents of Angliru, Farrapona and Bola del Mundo could resonate personally with Pogačar. Each of these climbs has been stage-winning or victorious borders for his cycling idol, Alberto Contador.
UAE Team Advantage
Looking from a tactical standpoint, the first week of the Vuelta features a 20-kilometre team time trial. This could work to the advantage of UAE Team Emirates. Moreover, 2025 is avoiding the 20% ‘goat-track’ summit finishes, opting for longer, more ‘classic’ climbs. This could play to the strengths of a mountain specialist like Pogačar.
However, a few challenges are poised for Pogačar if he chooses Vuelta. The route is no less difficult than previous editions, potentially hampering Pogačar’s hopes for a second World Championship rainbow jersey. A final decision on Pogačar’s participation in the Vuelta or Giro is expected after the Giro presentation on January 13. Pogačar’s potential addition to the 2025 Vuelta a España is undoubtedly an exciting prospect for cycling enthusiasts worldwide, creating heightened anticipation for the upcoming year of races.