"That's when the other rider has to try to beat him" - Alejandro Valverde on how Pogacar can be handled at the Tour de France

The Tour de France begins within a week and all of the main GC contenders are at the prime of their form. But all will have to go over this generation's best stage-racer: Tadej Pogacar. Will it be possible? And if so, how? Alejandro Valverde, former World Champion and Tour podium finisher, answers that question.

The World Champion has recently raced the Tour de Suisse, winning with an advantage that has never been seen before in recent years. The UAE Team Emirates - XRG's domination was no surprise, alongside the three stage wins he's had. When it comes to his legs, no-one can question the Slovenian's position coming into the race.

But as is the case with any rider, he can be beaten. "It's clear that he's beatable, but it's also true that when he's at his peak and has no setbacks, it's very difficult to beat him," Valverde shared in words to Marca. The former pro however believes that only with bad days or unexpected mishaps will the defending champion be topped at this year's edition.

"Can he be beaten? Ultimately, he's a human being and can have bad days. That's when the other rider has to try to beat him," Valverde argues. "At the Tour, we'll see if Vingegaard is regaining the form he had when he was 100%, and we'll see how far Paul Seixas can go, but without any pressure, of course. We'll see, let's enjoy the show."

Valverde has, since retiring, been the head of the Spanish national team. Over the year, he is in close contact with the country's best, and has provided an update on the World Championships. An interesting update is that Juan Ayuso seems to be the ultimate leader for the team.

"For now, yes. I think everything revolves around Ayuso. He's also very focused on the World Championships. I think it's a race that suits him very well, and he knows it suits him," 'Bala' argues. "In fact, he'll race some classics first and will already be competing in Montreal. I think we'll put together a great national team, like we did last year, and we'll play our cards."

Last year the Spaniard had a strong edition of the worlds in Kigali, with Paula Ostiz specially thriving with a double title at the women's junior category - and promising to do more in the future. With Paula Blasi also coming along the elite ranks, the Spaniard have high reasons to dream high this September.

But Valverde would give up a few medals in order to take a gold one. "Good question. Medals are fine where they are, but winning a gold medal as a coach is truly something special. Maybe I'd say, 'Well, yes, I'd give up a few'," he concluded.