Champion Pogačar: 'I Will Need New Goals Now'

Tadej Pogačar has once again etched his name in cycling history, clinching his fifth Tour de France victory after a spectacular performance throughout the race. The Slovenian star concluded the 113th edition of the prestigious event not with a customary parade lap, but with a dynamic display of racing prowess on the final stage, crossing the finish line in Paris with a powerful surge.

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It was a really interesting day, I am happy that it ended and that I won, for the fifth time in Paris. It is very special to be a five-time winner, I have ridden the Tour seven times, been on the podium seven times, won five times... This is truly unbelievable for me too.

While Mathieu van der Poel claimed the stage win, Pogačar ensured his own memorable finish, crossing the line in a celebratory manner after a hard-fought race. The victory marks a remarkable achievement, with Pogačar having participated in seven Tours de France and stood on the podium in all of them, winning five times. He acknowledged the significance of his accomplishment, calling it "unbelievable."

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The most important thing is to have people around you whom you trust, who help you when you need them, when you are down. That's how you can grow and progress. You always have to set goals, I will need new goals now.

Reflecting on his success, Pogačar emphasized the importance of his support system. "The most important thing is to have people around you whom you trust, who help you when you need them, when you are down. That's how you can grow and progress," he stated. Looking ahead, the five-time champion indicated a need to set new objectives, stating, "I will need new goals now."

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I fought with exceptional champions, it's a shame that Jonas withdrew, as did many others. I hope we will compete again next year. Let's not overdo it with the next goals, now is the time to enjoy this victory.

Despite facing strong competition, including the early withdrawal of rival Jonas Vingegaard, Pogačar expressed hope for future encounters. However, he remained grounded, preferring to savor the current victory rather than making bold predictions about his next major challenge, such as a potential appearance in the Vuelta a España. "We'll see, now I will enjoy this moment and the scenery," he concluded.

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We'll see, now I will enjoy this moment and the scenery.