Tadej Pogacar has called for a significant overhaul of the professional cycling calendar after enduring another scorching day at the Tour de France.
The UAE Team Emirates rider urged organizers to avoid racing in hot locations during July and August, citing the extreme conditions that affected the ninth stage.
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Pogacar's Proposal for Earlier Start Times
"If I had the power, I would change the entire calendar and avoid racing in hot locations during July and August," Pogacar stated.
He acknowledged that he lacks the authority to implement such changes but suggested that starting stages earlier could help mitigate the heat.
While organizers shortened the stage due to the heat, discussions about starting at 10 AM were deemed insufficient by Pogacar, who proposed starting at 8 AM or even earlier.
"Starting at 10 AM still means racing in the heat," he emphasized.
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Van der Poel Wins Shortened Ninth Stage
Mathieu van der Poel clinched victory in the shortened ninth stage from Malemort to Ussel, with Tom Pidcock finishing third.
The stage featured three steep climbs and nearly 2,700 meters of altitude gain, taking a toll on several riders.
Despite a manageable saddle sore, Pidcock delivered a standout performance by joining a breakaway that also included Van der Poel.
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The extreme heat has reignited debates about the timing of the Tour de France and the need for calendar adjustments to prioritize rider safety.
