Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian cycling sensation, has been a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional cycling. With two Tour de France victories under his belt and a string of other major race wins, his rise to prominence has been meteoric. However, as we usher in the year 2025, one question looms large in the minds of cycling fans and pundits alike: when will we see Pogačar take to the roads for his first race of the year?

Unlike many of his peers, Pogačar’s absence from the early stages of the season has sparked significant intrigue and some controversy. The silence surrounding his racing calendar has led to widespread speculation about the reasons behind his delayed start and what it might mean for his form and future in the sport.

The Silence: An Unusual Approach for a Champion

Pogačar, known for his explosive performances in races like the Tour de France, has usually made his first appearance in the spring classics, often racing in events like the Paris-Nice or the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana. These early season races are seen as crucial for riders to gauge their form, build fitness, and prepare for the bigger challenges later in the season. However, Pogačar has not confirmed his participation in any such events for 2025.

This silence has raised more than a few eyebrows, especially considering the fierce competition he faces in the cycling world. Rivals like Primož Roglič, Jonas Vingegaard, and Remco Evenepoel are already gearing up for early season races, which has left many wondering why Pogačar is taking a different approach.

The Controversy: Is Pogačar Dodging Early Challenges?

Some have begun to question whether Pogačar is intentionally avoiding early competition. While there is no denying his talents, some critics argue that the Slovenian star may be taking a step back to avoid putting himself in direct competition with rivals who are likely already in peak form. The pressure to perform, especially after a disappointing 2024 Tour de France campaign, could be another factor influencing his decision.

The absence of Pogačar from early races also raises questions about his physical and mental state. Was his 2024 season more taxing than we know? After a hard-fought Tour de France and a season filled with high expectations, it’s possible that Pogačar is prioritizing recovery over early season glory. A significant number of cyclists have spoken out about the mental and physical toll of the sport, particularly after the pressures of a grueling Grand Tour season.

However, his competitors are not waiting around. The likes of Vingegaard, winner of the 2024 Tour de France, are already hitting the roads with clear plans to defend their titles and gain further momentum. By not joining them in the early season, Pogačar may be running the risk of falling behind in terms of race rhythm and mental preparedness. As the sport becomes more competitive, the lack of early action could put him at a disadvantage.

Pogačar’s Strategy: Is It a Masterstroke or a Risk?

On the other hand, Pogačar’s decision to delay his start to the 2025 season could prove to be a masterstroke. Many seasoned riders choose to take their time with their race schedules, gradually ramping up their intensity before peaking at major events. This strategy, used by the likes of Chris Froome and other Grand Tour legends, allows riders to conserve energy and avoid burnout from the intense demands of back-to-back races.

By skipping early-season events, Pogačar could be preserving himself for the key races of the year. His ultimate goal, after all, is to win the Tour de France again, and he may be taking a more strategic approach to avoid unnecessary early-season fatigue. With the rise of new competitors, including Vingegaard and Evenepoel, this could be a calculated decision to hit peak form at exactly the right time.

Pogačar’s manager and team, UAE Team Emirates, have remained tight-lipped about his race schedule, but they could be planning to announce his entry into one of the major spring races at the last minute, keeping the competition guessing. The lack of information has only fueled speculation, with many fans eagerly awaiting any official confirmation.

What Does Pogačar’s Absence Mean for His Future in Cycling?

While the controversy surrounding Pogačar’s delayed start may be intriguing, it also highlights the broader issue of rider burnout in modern cycling. The mental and physical demands of the sport, coupled with the intense media scrutiny, can take a toll on even the most gifted athletes. Pogačar, despite his immense talent, is still a young man who has already achieved more than many cyclists do in a lifetime. If his early absence is a sign that he is taking a more measured approach to his career, it could be a wise decision that prolongs his time at the top.

However, there’s also the potential that this absence could be a symptom of a deeper problem—whether it be physical exhaustion, mental fatigue, or even a loss of motivation. If Pogačar is indeed struggling, it could be a warning sign that his dominance in the sport may not last much longer. While he remains one of the most talented riders in the world, cycling is a brutal sport, and no rider can remain on top forever.

The Countdown: When Will Pogačar Return?

As the cycling world waits for Pogačar’s season debut, the speculation will only grow. His absence from the early season races has become a story in itself, with fans and analysts alike questioning his decision. Will he return for the first major spring classic, like Milan-San Remo or the Tour of Flanders? Or will he hold off until the big showdowns in the summer, focusing all his energy on the Tour de France?

Regardless of when he finally makes his return, the question remains: is Tadej Pogačar’s delayed start to the 2025 season a calculated move for success, or a sign that the pressure of being a cycling superstar is starting to take its toll? The answer to that question may shape the trajectory of his career, and could even influence the outcome of the 2025 Tour de France.

As the countdown to his return continues, one thing is for sure: Tadej Pogačar’s decision to remain silent about his early-season plans is one of the most intriguing and controversial stories in the cycling world today. Fans, rivals, and pundits alike will be eagerly awaiting his first move—and wondering if his absence has been part of a master plan, or a misstep in a career that has so far been nothing short of extraordinary.