Rival has seen enough at UAE Tour: “Isaac del Toro could become even bigger than Tadej Pogacar”

“It’s really special to win my first WorldTour stage race,” said the UAE Emirates–XRG leader. “I’m super happy with the work the guys did — they helped me so much. I couldn’t be prouder. It was an amazing feeling riding today in Abu Dhabi, just like the other day in the streets of Dubai with the skyline in the background. It was emotional on the bike.”

The final stage ended up going to sprinter Jonathan Milan, but Del Toro’s focus was on sealing the overall. “I liked that the race was so fast. I’ll never forget this UAE Tour,” said Del Toro. “Yesterday on Jebel Hafeet we simply followed the plan. It’s not easy being the leader in this team, because everyone is so good, but it’s a huge satisfaction to win our team’s home race.”

“I learned a lot during this race, and I’m really happy that the hard work paid off,” he continued, already looking ahead. “Now I’ll take some rest at home before I start preparing for my next goals: Strade Bianche and Tirreno-Adriatico. I’m taking my time and building everything step by step,” said Del Toro, who also tried to temper expectations despite plans to ride the Tour de France later this year.

Antonio Tiberi beat Del Toro at the first uphill finish, but after repeated attempts across the week, the Bahrain Victorious leader ultimately had to concede. “A week ago I would have signed for second place,” said Tiberi. “This final result — together with a stage win — is great, especially at the start of the season. If I can continue like this, I can be ambitious for the rest of the year.”

Tiberi then made a bold prediction about the overall winner. “Isaac is a great champion — maybe he can become even bigger than Tadej Pogacar,” he said. “Everyone saw him last year, at a super young age, almost win the Giro d’Italia.”

Third place went to Luke Plapp (Jayco AlUla), who was pleased to show his level early in the season. “As an Australian it’s nice to be able to show my form from the summer,” Plapp explained. “I’ve got good memories of my podium here three years ago with Remco Evenepoel and Adam Yates. The field was stronger this year, so I’m proud and happy to be back in the top three.”