Whilst tiredness and fatigue following his
Giro d'Italia and Tour de France heroics undoubtedly played a part, the very controversial non selection of Pogacar's partner,
Urska Zigart from the women's lineup has been heavily rumoured to have also played a role. "She completely deserved a place... but okay, now we're going on holiday together," Pogacar says of the situation refusing the idea that he pulled out to get back at the Slovenian organisation. "It's really primarily about fatigue and avoiding a dip similar to the one I got into last year."
After a short and well deserved rest, the World Championships in Zurich become the Slovenian's main goal with the aim of becoming just the third rider ever, after Eddy Merckx and Stephen Roche to complete a Giro d'Italia, Tour de France, Rainbow Jersey triple crown in the same year.
"I want to win there. I was in top form during the Tour de France and by the end of September I want to be in the same condition as last month. That also requires rest," Pogacar concludes. "And so now in August I'm going on holiday to the beach, that's the first time in ages!"
