Tadej Pogacar has confirmed he will ride the Vuelta a España in 2025, aiming to complete a Grand Tour treble after winning the Tour de France. The five-time Tour champion seeks to match Jonas Vingegaard's rare achievement of winning all three Grand Tours in a single season.
Pogacar's Vuelta Announcement and Motivation
Speaking ahead of the race, Pogacar expressed excitement about returning to Spain, where he made his Grand Tour debut in 2019. "The motivation is high to finish off the year in a good way and the Vuelta will be a big target," he said. The Slovene's team is strong, and he hopes to deliver a memorable performance.
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Route Challenges and Key Stages
This year's Vuelta includes eight mountain stages and over 40km of individual time trials. Starting with a time trial in Monaco on 22 August, the race traverses Andorra, the Mediterranean coast, and culminates in Granada on 13 September. The demanding route will test Pogacar's endurance and climbing prowess.
Pogacar's decision comes after initial fatigue post-Tour, but he now feels ready. "Right now, I don’t feel fresh enough to ride the Vuelta if it started tomorrow, but in two weeks I can still decide," he had said. His packed schedule includes other races later in the year.
Historical Context: Grand Tour Treble
Winning all three Grand Tours in one season is a monumental feat, last achieved by Jonas Vingegaard in 2024. Pogacar aims to join this elite club, cementing his legacy as one of cycling's greatest. His 2019 Vuelta debut saw him finish third and win three stages, showcasing his potential.
| Athlete | Year | Grand Tours Won |
|---|---|---|
| Jonas Vingegaard | 2024 | Giro, Tour, Vuelta |
| Tadej Pogacar | 2025 | Tour (so far) |
Key Takeaways from Pogacar's Vuelta Bid
- Pogacar confirms Vuelta start, targeting a Grand Tour treble.
- Route includes 8 mountain stages and 40+ km of time trials.
- He aims to match Vingegaard's 2024 treble achievement.
- His 2019 Vuelta debut was a breakout performance.
What This Means for the 2025 Cycling Season
Pogacar's participation elevates the Vuelta's profile, promising intense competition. With Vingegaard sidelined due to injury, Pogacar is the clear favorite, but the mountainous terrain and strong rivals will challenge him. Fans can expect a thrilling battle for the red jersey.