Here’s a bold statement: Tadej Pogačar, one of cycling’s most dominant figures, has yet to conquer the Vuelta a España, and he’s not shy about why. But here’s where it gets controversial—he believes a simple calendar reshuffle could change everything. Could swapping the Vuelta’s September slot with the Giro d’Italia’s May position make it more than just a race—but a strategic win for riders and fans alike? Let’s dive in.
The Vuelta a España stands as one of the few Grand Tours Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) hasn’t claimed, despite his podium finish on debut six years ago. However, the Slovenian superstar hints that a shift in the race calendar could accelerate his return to Spain. Currently, the Vuelta’s September timing—a move made 30 years ago—places it awkwardly after the Tour de France and often before the World Championships. This scheduling makes it a tough ask for Pogačar, who’s eyeing a fifth Tour de France victory and a third consecutive rainbow jersey in 2026.
And this is the part most people miss—before 1995, the Vuelta ran in May, similar to the Giro d’Italia. Pogačar argues that reverting to this timeline wouldn’t just benefit him; it could also improve racing conditions. Spain’s extreme heat in September has been a challenge in recent years, while the Giro’s May slot has faced its own battles with cold, wet weather, and even snow—as seen in the 16th stage of Pogačar’s 2024 victory. Could this swap be a win-win for riders and organizers?
Currently in Gran Canaria for the 365 event and Sunday’s Gran Fondo Pico de las Nieves, Pogačar took a moment to address the press after a breakfast with his partner, fellow pro rider Urška Žigart. Unsurprisingly, the Vuelta was a hot topic for Spanish journalists. “It’s always hard to combine the Tour and Vuelta,” Pogačar told Cyclingnews and a small media group. “If they switch with the Giro, both races would benefit—better weather, better conditions for riders.”
Pogačar’s last Vuelta appearance was in 2019, where he announced himself as a Grand Tour contender with three stage wins and a podium finish behind compatriot Primož Roglič and Spaniard Alejandro Valverde. Despite rumors of a 2024 return, he opted for the Canadian races in Québec and Montreal, followed by defending his world title in Rwanda. “It’s complicated,” Pogačar admitted, reflecting on the Vuelta’s challenges, including the canceled return to the Canaries.
Here’s the thought-provoking question: Is the current calendar serving cycling’s best interests, or is it time for a bold change? Pogačar’s suggestion isn’t just about his own ambitions—it’s a call to rethink how we approach these iconic races. What do you think? Would a calendar swap elevate the Vuelta and Giro, or is tradition too sacred to touch? Let’s spark the debate in the comments!
