Tadej Pogačar has confirmed that he will make a major team change for the 2026 season, marking a dramatic turn in one of cycling’s most dominant careers. After years of success with UAE Team Emirates, where he captured multiple Tour de France titles and established himself as one of the sport’s greats, the Slovenian rider announced his decision with a personal statement that left fans stunned and intrigued.
“It’s time for a new chapter,” Pogačar said. “I’ve achieved so much with UAE, and I’m proud of what we built together. But I feel the need for a fresh challenge, a different environment, and new goals.”
Although the name of his next team has not yet been made official, speculation has already begun across the cycling world. Rumors suggest that Ineos Grenadiers, Lidl-Trek, and even Visma–Lease a Bike have all expressed interest in signing the 26-year-old superstar. Each of these WorldTour teams would gain not only a top GC contender, but also a global brand magnet and team leader with unmatched versatility.
UAE Team Emirates released a statement shortly after the announcement, expressing both gratitude and respect for Pogačar’s decision. “Tadej has been an integral part of our success and identity. While we’re sad to see him go, we support his decision and look forward to racing against him in the seasons to come.”
Pogačar is expected to finish the 2025 season with UAE Team Emirates, which includes defending his titles at major races and possibly taking on a new role at the Vuelta or Giro. The departure, while unexpected, doesn’t come with drama—just mutual respect and the quiet understanding that sometimes greatness requires change.
The cycling world now turns its attention to where Pogačar will land and how this move will reshape the landscape of professional cycling heading into the next generation of Grand Tours.
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