What’s it like to ride with Tadej Pogacar? Pavel Sivakov reveals all: “I pushed myself so hard that I eventually burned out”

Pavel Sivakov, UAE Team Emirates - XRG rider, recently joined Jack Haig's Rest Day podcast to discuss his experiences riding alongside Tadej Pogacar and the challenges of competing at the highest level of professional cycling.

Reflecting on last year’s Tour de France, Sivakov shared the intensity of the race and how it left little room for camaraderie during the stages. "In last year's Tour, we had to give our all in every stage, so you actually have almost no time to talk to colleagues. Usually, the final stage to Paris offers that opportunity, but last year’s final time trial to Nice forced me to dig deep one last time. I’d rather have the finish on the Champs-Élysées," he revealed.

Sivakov also highlighted the impact of Pogacar's exceptional performances on the team dynamic. "Tadej performing so well takes the pressure off the rest of us, which actually helps us ride better. It is good that as a team we also ride smaller races, because then it is easier to win," he explained. He contrasted this with the challenges faced in major races. "In the big races, you’re often up against Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel, in addition to Pogacar, which often means you can only get podium finishes — unless the team prioritizes wins."

For Sivakov, the 2024 season had standout moments, particularly at the Vuelta a Espana and Il Lombardia. "The Vuelta and Il Lombardia were the highlights of the year for me," he shared. "Because we performed so well as a team, I was very motivated to keep pushing myself. It was nice to contribute to Pogacar’s win in Lombardy. And at the World Championships in Zurich, I had a really great day in the breakaway alongside him."

Sivakov also reflected on the strain of racing at the front with Pogacar, acknowledging the physical toll it took. "When Pogacar and I were at the front, of course we worked together as teammates, but I pushed myself so hard that I eventually burned out," he admitted.