World · Singapore Bureau
Pogacar calls time on season after Vuelta crash surgery
Five-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar has ended his 2026 campaign early following a crash at the Vuelta a Espana that necessitated surgery. The Slovenian cyclist will now focus on his recovery, his team confirmed Saturday.
LSN Singapore ·
Tadej Pogacar has decided to cut short his competitive season after sustaining injuries serious enough to require surgical intervention during last weekend's Vuelta a Espana. The five-time Tour de France winner's decision to withdraw was announced by his team, UAE Team Emirates-XRG, on Saturday.
The crash occurred during the Spanish Grand Tour, one of cycling's three major stage races. Pogacar's team said the injuries sustained necessitated surgical treatment, making continued competition inadvisable at this stage of his recovery.
By opting to end his season now rather than push through to the end-of-season calendar, Pogacar prioritizes his long-term health and fitness. The move reflects the team's commitment to ensuring the Slovenian cyclist can return to full competitive fitness without risking further complications.
Pogacar's early exit marks a significant change to what had been a demanding 2026 season for the elite cyclist. The decision underscores the physical toll that Grand Tour racing places on athletes and the importance of proper recuperation following serious injury.