'We have to face reality' – Tadej Pogačar won't be riding European Champs or Il Lombardia, insist his team
The Slovenian is still recovering from broken bones sustained in Vuelta a España
Tadej Pogačar's team, UAE Team Emirates-XRG, has denied rumors that the rider would participate in the European Championships road race. Despite his interest in the event, as it begins in Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital, and passes through his hometown of Komenda, Pogačar is currently recovering from a severe crash during the Vuelta a España.
The crash resulted in a fractured collarbone and a cervical vertebra, causing him to miss the Vuelta and the World Championships. Pogačar is eager to return to racing, but UAE Team Emirates-XRG boss Mauro Gianetti has ruled it out, prioritizing his health over any desire to compete. Gianetti expressed sympathy for Pogačar's situation but emphasized that his well-being is the top priority, stating that it isn't yet time for him to compete again.
The team also announced a contract extension for Pogačar until 2032 and confirmed that he will not race this season. As a result, Il Lombardia and the European Championships will be won by new champions for the first time since 2020, with nobody who won previously still actively riding professionally. Tadej Pogačar is expected to return to competition in 2027.
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