I am so proud. The Tour de France is renowned as the toughest sporting event in the world, and I couldn't be more elated with what we accomplished. The entire team's hard work and devotion made this victory an enormous occasion not just for us, but for the entire UAE.
Each member of our team was exceptional. Preparation for the Tour de France starts long before the Grand Depart, with countless training days behind the scenes. Our riders benefitted from a superb altitude camp and entered the race ready to give their all. Despite the strength of our rivals, we were confident and well-prepared to succeed.
Our meticulous selection process ensured that every rider had a specific role to play, from Nils (Politt) to Adam (Yates), everyone was fantastic. Tadej Pogacar’s inspirational leadership drove his teammates on throughout the Tour.
There are many highlights for me from this year’s race. Stage Four showcased our team's power as we set a relentless pace, providing the perfect platform for one of Tadej’s iconic attacks – which turned out to be a sign of things to come. On Stage 14, our strategy was executed to perfection, with Adam’s surprise attack demonstrating our tactical astuteness to slingshot Tadej to another stage win.
Stage 15 saw Tadej deliver yet another flawless performance. His preparation was first-class, and it was no surprise to us how he masterfully managed his efforts stage-by-stage throughout the Tour.
He responded effortlessly to Team Visma Lease-a-Bike’s high tempo and Jonas Vingegaard’s attack. Our intimate knowledge of Isola, coupled with tackling the climb over 20 times during training camp, kept us calm and in control.
Tadej seized every opportunity, extending his lead and even catching the breakaway to take another stage win. Although the General Classification was now firmly in our grasp, we had to remain absolutely focused as we knew anything can happen at any moment in the Tour de France.
The final stage in Nice was a dream. Being a Monegasque resident, Tadej’s familiarity with the course played a pivotal role in securing a record sixth stage win. Witnessing the team’s celebrations at the finish line was incredibly special.
It was a testament to the collective effort and spirit that carried us through the race. The tireless work and dedication over the entire three weeks came to fruition and it was heartwarming to see how genuinely proud and happy the riders were for each other. Their camaraderie and togetherness was on full display, and it was a joy to see their hard work and perseverance rewarded in such spectacular fashion.
Over the 21 stages, my pride in the whole team was immense. Behind each rider’s performance was a dedicated and hardworking staff and support team, from mechanics to masseurs and physios. Their constant commitment and unremitting efforts continue to form the backbone of the team’s success. Their contribution cannot be overstated.
The impact of the Tour de France extends far beyond Europe. We witness the growth and development of cycling in the UAE each year, and it is inspiring to see. There is still plenty to be done, but the future looks very promising for cycling in the UAE.
Our success would not be possible without the incredible support back home, so I need to give a heartfelt thank you from myself and the entire team. The synergy between our performances and the unwavering support from the UAE made this Tour de France a highlight of my career.
