UAE Team Emirates-XRG announced the contract extension for Tadej Pogacar in a statement released through the Emirates News Agency on September 5, 2026. The agreement will keep the Slovenian rider with the squad until the end of the 2032 season, building on his prior deal that ran through 2030. Following a crash at the Vuelta a Espana on August 29, Pogacar has ended his 2026 campaign to prioritise full recovery, the team said.
Pogacar described the team as his home in response to the extension. “From the beginning, this team has felt like home for me. We have grown together over the years and shared some incredible moments, so I’m very happy to extend my contract until 2032. There is still a lot I want to achieve in this sport and I believe this is the right place to do it. I’m very grateful for the trust the team has shown in me and excited about what we can continue to build together,” he said in the announcement. The rider joined the organisation in 2019 and quickly established himself as its cornerstone.
Mauro Gianetti, team principal and CEO, emphasised Pogacar’s role in the squad’s progress. “Tadej has been central to the journey and development of this team, and we are extremely proud that this relationship will continue through 2032,” Gianetti stated in the release. “Following his crash, there is absolutely no pressure for Tadej to return to racing this year. His health and recovery are the priority.” The team added that Pogacar had contributed enormously across the season and would return when fully ready.
Since his arrival, Pogacar has secured five Tour de France titles, including the most recent in July 2026, along with the 2024 Giro d’Italia and two world road race championships, according to team performance records. He has also recorded 13 Monument victories, among them four at Il Lombardia, three at the Tour of Flanders and four at Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Such results have helped the squad earn recognition as the UCI WorldTour’s top team in multiple seasons.
The August 29 incident on stage eight of the Vuelta a Espana caused a displaced fracture to Pogacar’s left collarbone, a concussion and a stable fracture to the C7 cervical vertebra. He underwent surgery soon after the crash, which occurred while he led the Spanish Grand Tour. Medical staff from the team confirmed the injuries ended his participation in all remaining 2026 events, including the world championships.
Pogacar’s long-term commitment reflects the value the UAE-backed squad places on stability at the top of the sport. The 27-year-old has stood on the podium at nine successive Grand Tours, an unmatched streak in the modern era. Officials noted that the new contract contains tailored provisions recognising his exceptional contribution to the team’s success across all race types.
