Pogačar Leaves The Door Open To La Vuelta After His Fifth Tour Triumph

Tadej Pogačar has completed the Tour de France with a fifth overall victory, but he is not yet ready to confirm whether he will compete in La Vuelta a España. Speaking in Paris after the final stage, the Slovenian made it clear that his immediate priority is to recover before making another major decision about his season.

Asked whether he would start the Spanish Grand Tour, Pogačar admitted that his answer would be no if the race began the following day. However, he stopped short of ruling it out and said that he needs time to reflect. His words leave the possibility open, but they should not be interpreted as confirmation of his participation.

The decision will depend largely on how his body and mind respond after three demanding weeks in France. Despite controlling the general classification and winning five stages, Pogačar raced aggressively until the final day, even attacking with Mathieu van der Poel on the Montmartre circuit in Paris.

Taking part in La Vuelta would add another major objective to an already intense season. It would also transform the balance of favourites, as the presence of the five-time Tour winner would immediately make him the rider to beat. For UAE Team Emirates-XRG, however, managing recovery may be more important than chasing another title at any cost.

Pogačar’s comments reflect a more cautious approach than the expectations surrounding him. His superiority during the Tour inevitably generated speculation about his next challenge, but the Slovenian does not want to make a commitment while still feeling the physical and mental effects of the race.

For now, La Vuelta remains an option rather than a confirmed plan. Rest, medical evaluation and the rider’s own motivation will shape the final decision. Until Pogačar and his team make an official announcement, both his participation and his absence must be treated as possible outcomes.