"Honestly, I’ve not missed cyclocross at all" - Tom Pidcock opens up on turbulent winter

Tom Pidcock has been the talk of the cycling off-season so far, particularly due to his move to Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team for 2025. The 2022 world cyclocross champion has opted not to compete on his cross bike at all this winter, instead choosing a different path to prepare for the upcoming road season.

Pidcock is set to start his season at the AlUla Tour, marking his first time racing in this part of the world. Speaking to IDLProCycling.com, he shared his excitement about the new experience. "It’s my first time racing in this part of the world, so I’m really enjoying it. I already feel like a bit of a tourist, taking loads of photos," he said with a big smile.

When asked about skipping the cyclocross World Championships, Pidcock was candid. "It doesn’t feel strange not to be thinking about the cyclocross Worlds. Last year, I also finished my cyclocross season in January, so the preparation hasn’t been that different. Honestly, I’ve not missed cyclo-cross at all this winter," he admitted.

The decision to forego cyclocross this season was largely influenced by his move to Q36.5. "I’ve been busy. I changed teams, that’s why. Does it mean anything for the coming years? Not at all. I plan to race cyclo-cross again next year," he explained in his usual relaxed British manner. "The reason I didn’t miss it is probably because I haven’t been watching any of the races. But I don’t watch road races either, the only thing I watch on TV is mountain biking."

Pidcock has been pleasantly surprised by how seamlessly he’s adapted to his new team. "It’s been much easier than I ever expected to adapt to a new team. I just jumped in and immediately felt at home. That has gone flawlessly," he revealed.

Looking ahead to the season, Pidcock feels optimistic about his preparations. "Things are going really well, to be honest. Not doing cyclo-cross gave me a slightly different preparation, but it’s working out well. I had a good winter without any disruptions from illness or anything like that. I really can’t complain and am looking forward to starting the season," he said.

Following the AlUla Tour, Pidcock will head to Spain to continue his season. "I’ll race the Ruta del Sol, the Opening Weekend, and then focus mainly on the Italian block," he concluded, outlining his roadmap for the early part of 2025.