Pogacar meets Vingegaard before final stage and reveals what 'Tadejs Pogacarty' means after winning the Tour de France

Pogacar has already had twenty tough days, but was still able to recharge his batteries to go all out in the final stage. “I rode at the front, but before the start, I didn't really have the energy to find the motivation to race. I was very happy that they neutralized the times for the GC, which made me more relaxed to ride at the front,” he admitted after the race.

“I had good legs and was in contention, but Wout was impressively strong. I really enjoyed the stage,” Pogacar said about the final stage in Paris before heading to the podium for the final ceremony. “I can't put into words how it feels to win the Tour for the fourth time and to be on the podium for six years in a row. It feels extraordinary, and I feel proud every time I put on the yellow jersey.”

“Where did I win the Tour? That's a difficult question,” said Pogacar. “It starts at the beginning, where we rode very well as a team and had a great vibe. We went into battle right away, and after the first week, I knew my legs were good enough to compete for the overall victory.”

“The decisive moments came in the second week. We gained time there and went into the third week feeling comfortable,” said the UAE Emirates-XRG leader, referring to the time he gained on Hautacam and in the climbing time trial.

Pogacar met number two Jonas Vingegaard before the start and had this to say afterward. “Before the start, I spoke with Jonas about how much has changed in recent years. We've been racing against each other in the Tour for five years now and pushing each other to a higher level. We have to push our limits to beat each other, so I have to give him credit for that. He fought really hard, and I want to congratulate him on that.”

After three weeks of intense racing, Pogacar is not necessarily ready for a 'Pogacarty' in Paris. “Now it's time to celebrate. Everyone does that in their own way, but I prefer to take it easy. I hope for good weather and a few quiet days at home.”