Juan Ayuso is widely regarded as one of the most gifted cyclists in the professional peloton, though he remains a divisive figure largely due to circumstances beyond his control. The Spanish rider has been at the center of ongoing debate since the 2024 Tour de France, and ex-professional cyclist Thomas Dekker finds the level of criticism directed at Ayuso puzzling.
Ayuso withdrew from the Giro d’Italia after struggling with a persistent knee injury, which cost him time at the start of the final week. On top of that, a bee sting further hampered his performance on stage 17. Meanwhile, UAE Team Emirates – XRG saw Isaac del Toro in contention for victory, making the team’s dual leadership dynamic a frequent talking point. According to Dekker, the tension between Ayuso and UAE is clear, but he believes the Spanish cyclist is being unfairly targeted.
Dekker, speaking to In De Leiderstrui, criticized both UAE Team Emirates and Tadej Pogačar for sidelining Ayuso: “You can tell Pogačar is pleased when Del Toro does well, but Ayuso is being pushed aside in a very immature way. These are supposed to be professionals, yet the behavior is quite childish,” he said bluntly.
Dekker also suggested that Pogačar holds significant sway within the team, which he believes contributes to Ayuso’s isolation. “At UAE, where you stand in the hierarchy matters. It’s clear Pogačar has major influence right down to his altitude training camps and Ayuso is being excluded,” he added.
To conclude, Dekker offered a piece of career advice, suggesting Ayuso consider switching teams: “I believe he has the discipline and focus to thrive with a Spanish outfit like Movistar.”
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