Key Classics domestique for Tadej Pogacar extends UAE Team Emirates - XRG contract until 2027

UAE Team Emirates - XRG arguably have the most star power of any team in the peloton today. One of their superstar domestiques is sticking around too as Tim Wellens has reportedly extended his contract with the team of Tadej Pogacar, securing his future until 2027.

The report comes from Het Laatste Nieuws, who say that with Wellens' former contract expiring at the end of the current season, UAE Team Emirates - XRG have moved quickly to lock down the Belgian for the coming years. "Wellens feels great with the team, and his bosses are very satisfied with his work," reports HLN. "He wanted to extend his contract with UAE. The negotiations reportedly went very smoothly, and nice for Wellens: his contract was upgraded a bit. The new deal runs until the end of 2027."

Although he'd likely be a leader at almost all other World Tour teams for the Classics, Wellens previously spoke about how much he enjoys his current role at UAE, offering support to Pogacar, not only in the Spring but over the course of the whole season. "When I signed with UAE, I was offered a hybrid role where I would ride for the team in certain races and have responsibilities in other races," he previously told Het Nieuwsblad. "Supporting Tadej Pogacar in big races like the last Tour de France, where I contributed to the overall victory, is fantastic. Even exciting. I love that mission, but I also need the chance to play my own card in other races, otherwise I don't think I would be able to push myself to the limit in training."

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