Tadej Pogačar made a lighthearted yet telling remark as he returned to stage racing at the Critérium du Dauphiné: “Unfortunately, I’m stuck with the Tour every year.” The Slovenian superstar, fresh off a spring season filled with dominance, is now shifting his focus toward the Tour de France.
The Dauphiné marks Pogačar’s first multi-stage race since his historic Giro d’Italia victory, and it serves as a key preparation step for the summer’s biggest race. While his comment drew laughs, it reflects the intense pressure and expectation he shoulders each year as one of cycling’s premier Grand Tour contenders.
“It’s always special to be back at the Dauphiné. The legs are coming around, and this is where you test yourself,” Pogačar said. “Every year is different, but the goal stays the same: arrive at the Tour ready.”
With fans and rivals watching closely, Pogačar’s performance this week could hint at what’s to come in July. Despite the playful tone, his return signals serious intent.
\#Pogacar #Dauphine2025 #TourDeFrancePrep
Leave a Reply