Runner-up Luka Mezgec after a day on Tadej Pogacar's wheel: "This was a nightmare"

Tadej Pogacar was taking no hostages at Slovenian Championships. After uphill time trial which he won with breath-taking 5-minute margin, the situation in road race was a bit more tense. UAE Team Emirates rider teamed up with Luka Mezgec in a breakaway of two and now both shared their experience from the race.

"The team and I decided to thin out the peloton early in the race," begins Pogacar in team press release. "It was quite selective and only the WorldTour riders remained. When I attacked, it was still a long way to the finish."

"Luka and I wondered every kilometer if it was wise to continue with just the two of us, but we worked well together. Fortunately, we managed to stay ahead," says Pogacar about the cooperation of the two. "I am very happy with this victory. It is a nice boost towards the Tour that starts next week," concludes Pogacar.

The 34-year old Mezgec commented the race on his Instagram. "At the national championship I completed a 150-kilometer time trial with Pogacar," says the Mezgec with a wink. "This is really a nightmare for a rider who never wants to come into contact with the wind. Honestly, it's a hard-earned runner-up. Congratulations on the win, Tadej!"