In a surprising twist, cycling star Tadej Pogačar has hit back at Vuelta a España leader Ben O’Connor after the Australian rider made comments regarding the absence of Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard in this year’s Grand Tours. O’Connor, currently enjoying a strong run in the Vuelta, stated that the prestigious races have been “a lot more enjoyable” without the presence of the two cycling giants.
Pogačar, who has been sidelined from the Grand Tours this season due to injury, did not take O’Connor’s remarks lightly. “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. Some have defended his viewpoint, seeing it as an honest reflection of the increased competitiveness in the absence of Pogačar and Vingegaard, two of the sport’s dominant forces. Others have criticized it as a slight against the elite riders who set the benchmark in the sport.
As the Vuelta continues, attention will be focused on whether O’Connor can maintain his lead and validate his bold comments with a win. Meanwhile, Pogačar remains focused on recovering from injury and is determined to return stronger for next season, eager to reclaim his place at the top of the sport.
This clash of opinions between two high-profile riders adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already intense Grand Tour season, with the cycling world divided on the issue.
