Pogačar wins on Jebel Hafeet to seal UAE Tour Title
The world champion made a decisive move with 7.8 km remaining on the final climb after being part of an elite breakaway. His surge left the peloton behind, and he extended his advantage to the finish line, celebrating with fans as he crossed to become a three-time UAE Tour champion.
A perfect showcase for UAE Team Emirates-XRG
Pogačar's stage win is his sixth in the history of the race, and his third atop Jebel Hafeet. The victory also brings UAE Team Emirates-XRG its first UAE Tour title since 2022.
Strategic tactics and crosswind attack
Earlier in the race, Pogačar and his teammates, Rune Herregodts and Florian Vermeersch, positioned themselves strategically when crosswinds hit 125 km into the race. Together, they joined an elite front group that steadily distanced itself from the peloton.
Final push to victory
As they reached the base of Jebel Hafeet, Pogačar's team held a three-minute lead over the main group. Vermeersch set a hard pace, passing the baton to Herregodts, who pushed for another 500m before Pogačar launched his decisive attack. His acceleration left Oscar Onley (Team Picnic PostNL) and Giulio Ciccone (Lidl-Trek) behind, as Pogačar steadily increased his lead to secure his third UAE Tour victory.
Pogačar reflects on his victory
Pogačar expressed satisfaction with his win, stating, "It was crosswinds, so it was good to create some chaos in the group. We GC riders had to stay careful and attentive. At first, I wasn't sure the break would cooperate, but it went to the finish, so it was a really good day."
He continued, "With Florian and Rune in front, they kept getting me water and cooling me down. When Rune finished his effort, I decided to go solo to avoid any surprises or counterattacks. The guys did a great job for me."
Looking ahead
Pogačar now shifts his focus to one-day classics before returning to stage races at the Dauphiné, where he plans to enjoy the competition ahead.
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