From leader to tactical asset?
Evenepoel’s arrival inevitably shifts the balance of leadership. For the first time in years, Roglic may head into the Tour de France without the clear status of team leader — or perhaps even without a guaranteed spot. Yet the Slovenian isn’t resistant to change.
“This is actually a good thing,” he said of Evenepoel’s transfer. “It might allow me to step back a little, if I can put it like that. In terms of all the responsibilities around racing, we now have someone younger who can attract a lot of attention. Hopefully that gives me a bit more peace and freedom — even when it comes to how I race.”
It’s a pragmatic view from a rider who remains one of the most respected figures in the peloton, but who also understands the realities of elite cycling as he approaches the twilight of his career.
“I just want to be a bike rider”
While speculation around his future has swirled, Roglic has been quick to shut it down. “I didn’t really comment on any of that,” he said of rumours linking him with other teams. “If you’d asked me, I’d have told you I’ve got one more year left on my contract.”
His focus now is on stripping away distractions. “The peace I’m talking about is simply being a rider. Just doing the things the coach tells me, without worrying about extra stuff like nutrition, aerodynamics or equipment. The team has grown, and there are people for all of that now. I can really just be a cyclist. That’s enough.”
Realistic goals in a Pogacar eraEven with a reduced leadership role, Roglic remains a serious asset for the team. He still finished eighth at the Tour in 2025 despite setbacks, supporting Florian Lipowitz to a podium finish. His tactical intelligence and experience could be central to how Red Bull – BORA – hansgrohe approach the seemingly impossible task of challenging Tadej Pogacar and UAE Team Emirates.
“There are so many races out there,” Roglic reflected. “I’ve won some, but there are still plenty I haven’t. But the reality is what it is. We need to sit down, think carefully and have real conversations about what’s possible and what isn’t. I want honest conversations and realistic goals.”
Roglic and Lipowitz teamed up at the Tour in 2025
The Pogacar puzzle
Asked whether a three-pronged leadership with himself, Evenepoel and Lipowitz could be the answer to stopping Pogacar, Roglic offered a wry smile. “Anything’s possible. But reality is something else entirely. Whichever way you look at it, something’s still missing. On the other hand, if we can spread the pressure across three riders instead of one, maybe there’s a better chance. But let’s be honest — UAE isn’t exactly weak. We’ll see.”
For Roglic, the next few months will be less about proving himself and more about redefining his role. After years as a team’s central figure, 2026 could mark the start of a new chapter — not as the sole leader, but as an indispensable piece of a broader tactical puzzle.