"It makes life easier in terms of choosing the races I want" - João Almeida on Ayuso's UAE departure and possible partnership with Pogacar at La Vuelta

João Almeida is going into 2026 with a shot at leadership in two Grand Tours: the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España. However, the Portuguese is aware that he may be joined by Tadej Pogacar at La Vuelta and that a decision will only be made later in the year.

Earlier this week the UAE Team Emirates - XRG rider spoke at a press conference where he provided his insight on several subjects. The conversation moved through several of his current and former teammates, one of them being compatriot António Morgado.

The 22-year old won yesterday's Trofeo Calvia and is beginning another season on a high, and in May will be supporting Almeida's GC ambitions at the Corsa Rosa. Almeida is quite happy with the progress of Morgado and the two can form a strong partnership during his Grand Tour debut.

"He can help me on all types of terrain. He's very young and has a lot to learn, but he's very strong," Almeida said in words to A Bola. "I see him competing in week-long races in the future and, in the Classics, he's also very good. He has brilliant potential."

Almeida was also asked about Juan Ayuso's departure and what difference it makes within the team: "Yes, it ends up being one less leader to adapt the calendar to, which frees up space. It makes life easier in terms of choosing the races I want to compete in and participate in."

Although with Isaac del Toro, UAE gained another world-class leader who will without a doubt be taking up other leadership spots throughout the coming years. All three GC specialists at UAE have long-term contracts signed, but in 2025 Almeida had his best ever season and has proved to be worthy of a full leadership role at the team.

At the Giro this will be uncontested, with Adam Yates and Jay Vine amongst those who will join him; but at the Vuelta a España his lead will depend on Tadej Pogacar's presence. However, there is still a very long wait to know if this will be the case or not.

"Pogacar in the Vuelta? His participation is only confirmed after the Tour. It depends on how he is, whether he's tired or not, and he has the world champion's jersey to defend. If he goes, he's the main leader, that's indisputable".

At first, Pogacar's presence was deemed unlikely; but with two consecutive rainbow jerseys already conquered and a home start in Monaco towards the one Grand Tour he hasn't won yet - and where neither Jonas Vingegaard or Remco Evenepoel should be present - the Slovenian may end up taking the opportunity.

"But he's a rider I enjoy racing with and, if he has the opportunity to give me a victory, I wouldn't hesitate."