“I had goosebumps and tears in my eyes” – Tadej Pogacar's loyal lieutenant on immense pride at standing beside Slovenian star during World Championships

Standing alongside Tadej Pogacar at the biggest moments of the season remains one of the defining experiences of Domen Novak’s year.

Speaking in an interview with Sportal, the UAE Team Emirates - XRG rider described the emotional impact of witnessing Pogacar receive the rainbow jersey at the World Championships, underlining just how deeply the moment resonated within the Slovenian camp.

“It’s a special feeling, especially this year. When we stood under the podium and they presented the rainbow jersey to Tadej, I had goosebumps and tears in my eyes. Even now, talking about it, I get goosebumps again.”

Novak framed the moment within a longer personal journey, moving from childhood spectator to participant on cycling’s biggest stage. “As kids we used to watch the World Championships, and now I can be part of it myself. That means so much to me – and I’ve experienced it twice already.”

Novak also addressed how closely his own international programme is tied to Pogacar’s presence, particularly when discussing future World Championships and European Championships. “If Tadej goes, I’ll go.”

The Slovenian made clear that his willingness to represent the national team does not hinge solely on Pogacar’s participation. “Even if Tadej didn’t go, I’d still join the national team if I can help and I’m healthy.”

Reflecting again on the symbolic weight of Pogacar’s rainbow jersey, Novak returned to the emotional resonance of that moment. “It’s a special feeling – especially this year, when Tadej got the rainbow jersey. I had goosebumps and tears in my eyes.”

Novak also referenced Pogacar when discussing coaching and development, pointing to the progress made since working with trainer Javier Sola. “If we look at how Tadej has progressed over the past two years since working with him, it’s clear that he’s taken a big step forward in every area.”

The comment positioned Pogacar as a reference point within the team environment, without separating individual success from the wider structure around him.

Inside UAE Team Emirates, Novak described Pogacar’s role as central to the team’s atmosphere and results, highlighting the effect of having the sport’s leading rider at the core of the group. “Of course, success helps, and Tadej contributes a lot to the positive vibe. He’s the best in the world.”

According to Novak, that presence feeds into moments that go beyond race results alone. “Sometimes things happen in races that people wouldn’t even believe.”

That influence, he explained, extends beyond headline victories, with recognition spread across different roles within the team. “For example, after Liege–Bastogne–Liege in 2023, the team were almost happier for me than for Tadej, who actually won. They see the whole picture, not just the winners.”

For Novak, moments like those alongside Pogacar reflect the standards and clarity that define both the Slovenian set-up and UAE Team Emirates - XRG. Roles are understood, contributions are valued, and success is shared — whether on the podium or far from the spotlight.