Now I believe in everything Tadej told me” – Isaac del Toro takes Pogacar’s advice amidst Giro d’Italia defeat

**”Now I Believe in Everything Tadej Told Me” – Isaac del Toro Takes Pogacar’s Advice Amidst Giro d’Italia Defeat**

In a heartfelt post-race reflection, rising cycling star Isaac del Toro revealed he has found new faith in the wisdom of Tadej Pogacar after a humbling performance at the 2026 Giro d’Italia. The 22-year-old Mexican rider, who had been considered a breakout contender this season, struggled in the mountainous final stages of the iconic Grand Tour, ultimately conceding the pink jersey to a dominant performance by Ineos’ Egan Bernal.

“Now I believe in everything Tadej told me,” Del Toro admitted, referencing private conversations with two-time Tour de France champion Pogacar, who has long mentored the young talent within the UAE Team Emirates squad. “He told me it would hurt. That it would test everything—my legs, my mind, my soul. And it did.”

Del Toro had shown promising form throughout the first two weeks of the Giro, even donning the maglia rosa after a stellar time trial in Tuscany. But the brutal Dolomites proved too much, and his dream of a podium finish slipped away in the penultimate stage.

Pogacar, who did not participate in this year’s Giro, praised Del Toro’s courage and growth, saying via Instagram, “Proud of Isaac. This is just the beginning for him. He has heart, and that’s the biggest thing you need in this sport.”

While the result may not have matched expectations, Del Toro’s poise and perspective have earned him admiration. “This wasn’t my Giro to win,” he reflected, “but it was my Giro to learn.”

With youth on his side and guidance from legends like Pogacar, Isaac del Toro’s journey in professional cycling is far from over—it’s just shifting into a new gear.