Tadej Pogacar has asked his UAE Team Emirates squad to permit him to start the European Road Championships on Oct. 4 in Ljubljana, despite a left‑clavicle fracture sustained on Aug. 29 during the Vuelta a Espana.
What injury did Pogacar suffer and when?
The Slovenian champion broke his left clavicle on Aug. 29 while competing in the Vuelta a Espana.
Why does he want to race the European Championships?
Pogacar, the reigning world champion, sees the event as a chance to defend his title and race in his home country of Slovenia.
What is the team’s position?
UAE Team Emirates and coach Javier Sola have urged patience, suggesting he skip the rest of the season and target a return in January at the Tour Down Under in Australia.
What risks are cited by the team?
The squad warns that accelerating his recovery could jeopardise long‑term health and increase the chance of re‑injury.
How does Pogacar’s recent performance factor in?
He watched teammate Brandon McNulty win the Montreal race that secured the rainbow jersey for the past two years, heightening his desire to compete.
The decision remains pending as medical assessments continue and the championship approaches.