Tadej Pogacar Unveils Post-Tour 2025 Schedule Amid Burnout Concerns

Tadej Pogacar, four-time Tour de France champion, has outlined his racing schedule following the conclusion of the 2025 Tour de France. In a significant shift towards a more measured approach to competition, Pogacar plans to participate in only two major events for the remainder of the season: the World Championships set for September 28 in Rwanda and the Tour of Lombardy on October 11. This decision comes amidst growing signs of fatigue and an expressed desire for a break after a demanding racing season.

Pogacar has opted to skip the upcoming Vuelta a España, which takes place from August 23 to September 14—a race he previously finished third at in 2019. Team UAE Emirates is expected to be led by Juan Ayuso and Joao Almeida in his absence. This focus on a limited schedule underscores Pogacar's recognition of the heavy physical and mental toll professional cycling can take.

Looking ahead, Pogacar is targeting his fifth Tour de France victory in 2026 but is leaning towards a less intensive competition strategy to mitigate burnout risks inherent in the sport. “We train a lot, and sometimes we are too obsessed with it,” he admitted, pointing to the necessity of balancing competitive commitments with personal well-being.

He also mentioned a desire to participate in different events, highlighting his strong performance at the recent Paris-Roubaix, where he secured a second place finish. Additionally, Pogacar is confirmed to compete in a local criterium in Slovenia on August 9, reinforcing his intention to stay active even as he reevaluates his racing priorities.

While Pogacar currently has no plans to retire, he expressed awareness of the need to consider his long-term career trajectory, hinting that retirement could be on the horizon as he approaches 30, with reflections on potentially stepping back around the time of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. His thoughts on reducing competitive strain and exploring new racing avenues reflect a mature perspective on sustaining a successful cycling career amid the pressures of elite competition.