Tadej Pogačar to Miss Remainder of the Season as UAE Team Emirates Confirms Full Withdrawal
In a shocking development, UAE Team Emirates has announced its complete withdrawal from professional cycling, citing unforeseen financial and organizational challenges. This decision means that two-time Tour de France winner Tadej Pogačar will miss the remainder of the 2025 season, leaving a significant void in the sport.
The team’s withdrawal comes as a major blow to the cycling world, with the UAE-based squad having established itself as one of the most dominant forces in the peloton over recent years. With star riders like Pogačar, João Almeida, Adam Yates, and Juan Ayuso, the team had been poised for another strong season. However, reports indicate that the sponsorship backing from UAE-based organizations has abruptly ended, forcing the team to cease operations with immediate effect.
Pogačar, who was aiming for another Tour de France victory and had planned to compete in the Vuelta a España, now faces an uncertain future. The Slovenian star has been linked with several top teams, including Ineos Grenadiers and Jumbo-Visma (soon to be Visma-Lease a Bike), but with the transfer window closed, he may have to sit out the season unless a special exemption is granted by the UCI.
“This is an extremely difficult situation for everyone involved,” Pogačar said in a brief statement. “I want to thank UAE Team Emirates for everything over the years. Right now, I need to assess my options and see what the future holds.”
The cycling world now awaits further clarification from the UCI regarding rider transfers and potential solutions for the displaced athletes a
nd staff.
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