The 2025 UAE Tour cycling competition wrapped up with thrilling performances and unexpected turns, showcasing the prowess of professional cyclists at this prestigious event. Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates) emerged as the standout competitor, clinching his third overall title at the UAE Tour with yet another outstanding display of riding prowess, particularly atop the challenging Jebel Hafeet.
Pogacar showcased his exceptional skills by launching a decisive attack just 7.7 kilometers from the finish line during the final stage, which took place on the steep slopes of Jebel Hafeet. He finished the race solo, significantly outpacing his closest rivals, Giulio Ciccone of Lidl-Trek, who finished second, and Pello Bilbao from Bahrain Victorious, who secured third place. This victory not only marks Pogacar’s third title at the UAE Tour, but it also adds to his growing tally of professional wins, bringing it to 91.
During the final stage of the tour, which covered 176 kilometers from Al Ain Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium to the Jebel Hafeet summit, Pogacar’s UEA Team Emirates squad employed high-speed tactics early on. Crosswinds played a role, splitting the peloton and creating opportunities for strategic advantage among the competitors. The fast-paced race saw Pogacar maintaining the lead, particularly as his closest competitors could not keep up with his relentless tempo (according to reports from Cyclingnews).
Before Pogacar took his chance, the race had experienced tense moments with multiple riders, including Chris Froome (Israel-Premier Tech), facing significant challenges. Froome was involved in a crash early during the final stage, leading to him sustaining a fractured collarbone. The incident forced him out of the race, significantly impacting his performance this season. According to his team, Froome received medical attention immediately after the crash, with the situation still being assessed by medical professionals.
Reflecting on his performance after securing the Red Jersey, Pogacar stated, "Today’s race was just suffering until 2km to go when I could relax a bit and try to enjoy the last kilometres." His success this year at the UAE Tour serves as early momentum as he prepares for upcoming Spring Classics.
Pello Bilbao, who finished third, expressed his gratitude for the support from his teammates throughout the race. He highlighted the challenges he faced but remarked on the positive outcome for his team. "Tadej Pogačar is so used to making the top step of the podium." His finish marked Bilbao's third career podium at this tour, having secured the third position previously.
The competition was exciting, not just for the overall title, but also for the various classifications awarded throughout the event. Jonathan Milan took home the Green Jersey for the Points Classification, maintaining his position as leading scorer, and Ivan Romeo from Movistar earned the White Jersey for the Best Young Rider.
The UAE Tour 2025 concluded with astonishing performances and storylines, highlighting the competitive spirit of cycling athletes. It underlined the unpredictability of the sport, with crashes and tactical maneuvers shaping the outcomes of each stage.
Following this successful event, Pogacar indicated his focus would now shift to the European racing calendar, particularly the prestigious Strade Bianche and other classic races where he aims to extend his dominant form.
Given his standout performance and lessons learned during the UAE Tour, Pogacar poses as the cyclist to watch as the season progresses. The anticipation builds over how he will fare against formidable rivals such as Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert during the upcoming Spring Classics.
Overall, the UAE Tour has set the stage for what promises to be another exciting season of professional cycling. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the dynamics will shift as more competitions approach. With numerous cyclists planning their strategies and training intensively for upcoming events, the cycling world is undoubtedly watching closely.
The 2025 UAE Tour has left fans with thrilling memories of high-speed racing, remarkable athleticism, and the indomitable spirit characteristic of professional cycling.