Pogačar Commits to Racing Through 2030,Dismisses Retirement Talk
BERGAMO,ITALY – Tadej Pogačar has reaffirmed his commitment to professional cycling,stating he intends to honor his contract with UAE Team Emirates through 2030 and dismissing earlier suggestions of a potential retirement following the 2028 Los Angeles olympics. The clarification comes during the off-season as Pogačar resumes training following a dominant 2025 season, including a record-equaling fifth victory at Il Lombardia.
Pogačar had hinted at a possible earlier-than-expected retirement during the Tour,but now insists the idea of leaving at the end of 2028 was never seriously considered. “I never considered leaving at the end of 2028,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I signed the contract until 2030 and, unless something crazy happens, of course I will respect it. I would never have or else signed keeping that date in mind.”
The Slovenian star also reiterated his ambition to compete for victories in the Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix classics, stating, “Winning such a classic is much bigger than going there thinking that you might win.” Despite the demanding nature of the sport, Pogačar emphasized a renewed enthusiasm following a mental reset during the off-season.
he expressed strong loyalty to his current team,adding,”Every year the team improves and I feel more and more in a family. I don’t see myself anywhere else,and if I want to race beyond 2030 it’s very likely that it’s always with the UAE.” Pogačar is currently back in training, acknowledging it will take time to regain peak racing form.
