In a surprising turn of events, cycling star Tadej Pogačar has slammed Vuelta leader Ben O’Connor following the Australian rider’s recent comments about the absence of Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard in this year’s Grand Tours. O’Connor, who has been enjoying a strong run in the Vuelta, stated that the prestigious races are “a lot more enjoyable” without the two cycling giants.
Pogačar, who has been sidelined from the Grand Tours this season due to injury, did not take kindly to the remarks. “It’s disrespectful to the sport and to the riders who push the limits every day,” Pogačar said in a statement. “Cycling is about competition, and the best riders should be there to elevate the race, not make it ‘easier’ for others.”
O’Connor’s comments have sparked a heated debate within the cycling community, with some defending his perspective as an honest reflection of the sport’s competitiveness, while others see it as a slight against two of the most dominant riders of recent years.
As the Vuelta continues, all eyes will be on O’Connor to see if he can maintain his lead and back up his bold statement with a victory. Meanwhile, Pogačar remains focused on his recovery, aiming to return stronger for the next season.
