Tadej Pogacar, Tour de France Champion, Will Not Compete at Olympics

 

Tadej Pogacar, Tour de France Champion, Will Not Compete at Olympics

Paris, France - July 23, 2024

Tadej Pogacar, the two-time Tour de France champion, has confirmed that he will not be participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This surprising decision is a major blow to the Slovenian cycling team, which had counted on its star to shine on the Olympic stage.

Pogacar explained his decision in a statement posted on his social media.

"I've made the difficult decision not to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games," he wrote. "It wasn't an easy choice to make, but it's the best one for me and my career."

The Slovenian rider cited accumulated fatigue after an intense season and the need to focus on his long-term goals as the main reasons for his absence.

"The season has been long and demanding, and I need time to recover and rest," he said. "I also want to focus on my long-term goals, and I believe that not participating in the Olympics is the best way to achieve them."

A Notable Absence

Pogacar's absence is a significant setback for the Slovenian cycling team. The young rider was considered one of the favorites for the gold medal in the individual road race, and his presence would undoubtedly have strengthened his team's chances.

However, Pogacar's decision is understandable. Cycling is a demanding sport, and riders need time to recover and rest to avoid injuries and maintain their top performance level.

Pogacar still has many years ahead of him to win Olympic medals. It's likely that he will reconsider his decision and participate in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

The Slovenian Team Remains Ambitious

Despite Pogacar's absence, the Slovenian cycling team remains ambitious for the Paris Olympics.

Primož Roglič, Pogacar's teammate, will still be one of the favorites for the gold medal in the individual road race. Matej Mohorič, another talented Slovenian rider, could also surprise in the road race.

The Paris 2024 Olympics promise to be an exciting competition, and even without Tadej Pogacar, the Slovenian cycling team will have a say in the medal race.