Tadej Pogacar disappointed at end of talks between UAE Team Emirates and Allan Peiper - "In my eyes he would still be an asset to the team"

Tadej Pogacar is currently the leader of the UCI rankings and a key figure within pro cycling. A lot of his development was in collaboration with Allan Peiper, who had stepped down from his role at UAE Team Emirates due to health issues. Pogacar can't help but to be disappointed on how the Australian is no longer associated with the team.

A few weeks back the collaboration seemed like it could continue, until Peiper revealed to Het Laaste Nieuws that "we were unable to reach an agreement about the strategy and the way in which my role should be fulfilled." The former pro rider was crucial for Tadej Pogacar's development and growth as a top pro rider. 

In a press conference ahead of the Tour of Flanders, the Slovenian was asked on his thoughts regarding the topic. “For the simple reason that I keep in touch with him. If I have questions, I ask them. It is a pity that he is no longer with the team," he responded. "He has tons of experience and follows everything closely. Allan was even preparing for certain Tour stages. In my eyes he would still be an asset to the team. Unfortunately, it is now."

Although Peiper's presence was more crucial in the Grand Tours, Pogacar has in recent years decided to widen his range of goals quite a lot. Milano-Sanremo and the Tour of Flanders have become important objectives for the 24-year old, who has conquered this Sunday afternoon his fourth monument as he soared to victory at the on the cobbles.