- Primoz Roglic has offered a typically oblique but telling glimpse into Slovenia’s internal dynamics ahead of Sunday’s World Championship road race in Kigali, admitting that the squad’s priority will be to give Tadej Pogacar a clear run at the Rainbow Jersey.
Speaking to 24ur.com from a high-altitude camp in Sierra Nevada, Roglic underlined the complexity of Slovenia’s enviable dilemma: balancing two of the sport’s biggest Grand Tour champions within the same nine-man line-up. “The race will certainly be very demanding, but with the way Tadej has been flying recently, we just need to give him space and not get in his way,” Roglic said. “For the rest of us, even reaching the finish will be a big fight.”
Roglic’s comments tap into a debate that has simmered throughout the build-up to Kigali. National coach Uros Murn has repeatedly underlined that Pogacar represents Slovenia’s best chance of victory and deserves the team’s full support. Former Vuelta winner Chris Horner has gone further, stressing that Pogacar’s form makes him the obvious leader while cautioning that dual leadership is rarely effective at the World Championships.
Roglic himself has historically been reluctant to spell out any hierarchy, often falling back on platitudes about letting the road decide. Yet his latest words – “not get in his way” – suggest a tacit acceptance of Pogacar’s primacy.
Preparation and pragmatism
The 34-year-old arrives in Rwanda after an intensive training block, having skipped the time trial for health reasons. “I wasn’t in the best shape after the Tour. I needed time to recover and reset. Now I’m back in gear again, preparing for the road race,” he explained.
Roglic also acknowledged the uncertainties of racing in Africa but dismissed concerns with trademark dry humour. “I’ll only spend three nights there, which means minimal risk. I need to be there and give my best, for myself and for the team. I’ve already spoken to people in Kigali – they seem healthy, normal, and they even have internet,” he joked.
Credit: Picture: Sirotti