Alberto Contador urges Tadej Pogacar to return to the Vuelta a Espana: “He has to put it in his palmares, it’s the only one he lacks”.

At just 26 years old, Tadej Pogačar is already considered one of the greatest cyclists in history. While he may still trail the legendary Eddy Merckx, Pogačar’s achievements place him among the elite, especially after a historic 2024 season that many regard as one of the best individual campaigns ever.

The Slovenian star captured the Giro d’Italia title, secured his third Tour de France victory, claimed the prestigious Rainbow Jersey at the World Championships, and added two Monument wins to his impressive résumé. Yet, Pogačar’s ambitions remain sky-high as he aims to match or surpass these feats in 2025. Speculation is growing that he might compete in the Vuelta a España, the only Grand Tour missing from his palmarès. Pogačar made a name for himself at the Vuelta in 2019, finishing third and winning three stages.

During Eurosport’s coverage of the Clásica de Almería, Spanish cycling legend Alberto Contador weighed in on the possibility. Contador acknowledged that UAE Team Emirates – XRG has yet to confirm Pogačar’s participation in the Vuelta, but urged the Slovenian to seriously consider it to complete his Grand Tour collection.

“I think it’s good that Pogačar hasn’t fully committed yet. If there’s uncertainty, it’s better to be cautious than to raise expectations only to disappoint fans later. There’s still time to decide, but I believe he must include the Vuelta a España in his list of victories. He’s young and has plenty of time ahead, but it’s the only Grand Tour missing from his palmarès,” Contador stated.