UAE cools talk of an early Pogačar comeback

The possibility of seeing Tadej Pogacar back in competition before the end of the year is losing strength. The UAE Team Emirates-XRG has responded to his unexpected appearance on the preliminary list for the European Championship, stating that there are currently "no plans" for the Slovenian to return to competition in 2026. His return is still expected for the next season.

UAE clarifies Pogacar's unexpected entry in the European Championship: «There are no plans» for him to return to competition in 2026

The surprise arose when Pogacar appeared registered on the preliminary list for the European Championship in Slovenia, which will take place in early October. A particularly striking presence after his team officially declared his season over following the serious crash he suffered in La Vuelta.

Rumors from Italy also suggested that Pogacar would have a special interest in competing in the European Championship at home if his recovery progressed sufficiently. His appearance on the Slovenian list ended up fueling a possibility that until then seemed ruled out.

Now, UAE Team Emirates-XRG has clarified the situation to Cyclingnews: «There are no plans» for Pogacar to compete in any other races during 2026.

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The registration, therefore, does not seem to reflect a change in his schedule for now, and the plan remains that the reigning European champion focuses on his recovery and returns to competition in 2027.

Pogacar has already started pedaling. A few days ago, the first images of the Slovenian training on the roller appeared, a positive sign regarding his recovery after the injuries suffered in La Vuelta, but not a precursor to an immediate return.

Unless there is a new change of plans, the European Championship will be without Pogacar and 2026 will have definitively ended for him in La Vuelta a España.