Evenepoel‘s agent Confirms Tour de France Focus, Dismisses Doubts About Pogačar‘s Participation
PARIS, FRANCE – Despite recent speculation fueled by comments from Remco Evenepoel’s father, the rider’s agent, Alex Carera, has affirmed that the Tour de France remains a key objective for Tadej Pogačar next season. This confirmation comes as Evenepoel himself and his team remain noncommittal about his 2026 Tour plans,though Carera suggests the best is yet to come for the young Belgian star.
The uncertainty surrounding Pogačar’s participation arose after Evenepoel senior publicly questioned weather the Slovenian would compete in the Tour, suggesting he intends to focus on the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España instead. This claim, originating “from the heart of the peloton,” contrasts sharply with Carera’s recent statements to Velo confirming the Tour de France as a certainty for Pogačar.
Carera also detailed Pogačar’s preparations to avoid a repeat of the struggles he experienced in the third week of this year’s race. While Evenepoel’s team and his father are holding back on a firm Tour commitment, indicating a decision will be made later, Carera’s statements underscore Pogačar’s dedication to challenging for a record-equaling fifth Tour victory.
Evenepoel senior downplayed the importance of a longer individual time trial in the 2026 route, stating, ”You don’t win a Tour in a time trial anyway. You win the Tour in the mountains.” he argued that time trial length is inconsequential,as important time losses can occur in mountainous stages.
The debate highlights the strategic considerations facing both riders as they plan their 2026 seasons, with the Tour de france remaining the pinnacle of cycling achievement.
