Pogačar fine-Tunes Form Ahead of World Championships, eyes Evenepoel Challenge in Rwanda
Tadej Pogačar and his team are entering the final stretch of the season with a clear focus: the UCI Road World Championships in Rwanda. While recent performances at the grand Prix cycliste de Québec showcased a slight tactical shift, Pogačar remains confident and is using the Canadian races as crucial preparation. He’s aiming to peak in Rwanda and challenge for both the road race and time trial titles.
A Tactical Adjustment in Québec
Pogačar noted a change in race dynamics at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec. A key support rider, expected to feature prominently in the finale, unexpectedly faded. ”behind it basically didn’t come back,” Pogačar explained. ”We were expecting it to come back and then probably sprint with the boys,but it was a change this year,and I think it did [change it] for sure.”
Despite this, Pogačar asserts his team is the favourite and possesses the strongest lineup at the moment. Their strategy will be aggressive.”It will be up to us to really make it hard and go for it,” he stated.
Rwanda: The Primary Goal
The Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec and Montréal aren’t major objectives in themselves. Instead, they serve as vital building blocks toward the World Championships Road Race. Pogačar is prioritizing peak performance for Rwanda.
“Of course, I want to peak at the World Championships. That’s the main goal for this final stretch of the season,” he said. “I also want to use these races as good training and hope I’ll be ready.”
A Different Kind of Preparation
Pogačar’s approach to post-Tour de France recovery has been unconventional. he’s prioritized personal time and a less intense training regimen. Instead of a traditional altitude camp, he opted for a complete break, supporting his partner Urška Žigart at her races, and focused on training at home in Slovenia.
“After the Tour, I took a break, followed Urška at her races, and did some good training at home,” Pogačar revealed. “I couldn’t squeeze another big training block at altitude into my summer.”
Time Trial Ambitions: Pogačar vs. Evenepoel
With the World Championships less than two weeks away, Pogačar has confirmed his participation in both the road race (September 28th) and the individual time trial. He’s specifically targeting a showdown with reigning champion Remco evenepoel (Soudal Speedy-Step).
“Do I really want to challenge Remco? Of course, that’s the goal,” Pogačar declared. “I want to put him and the other strong specialists to the test. The course should suit me, although I’ll need a very good day. I’ve always been a fan of the discipline and have been on my time trial bike more than usual this time.”
To prepare, Pogačar has dedicated extra time to honing his time trial skills.
Alaphilippe’s Resurgence
Julian Alaphilippe’s victory at the Grand Prix Cycliste de Québec was a welcome return to form for the former world champion. “Honestly, I need some time to realize what I have done today,” alaphilippe said, reflecting on his emotional win.
Looking Ahead
Pogačar will have one final prospect to gauge his form at Sunday’s Grand Prix de Montréal before traveling to Rwanda. The team is focused, the preparation is underway, and the cycling world eagerly anticipates a thrilling battle for the rainbow jerseys.
Key Takeaways for Fans:
* Pogačar’s Focus: The World Championships in Rwanda are the top priority.
* Time Trial Challenge: Expect a fierce competition between Pogačar and Evenepoel.
* Unconventional Recovery: Pogačar opted for rest and home training over a traditional altitude camp.
* Team Strategy: Pogačar’s team aims to control the races and dictate the pace.
