Bradley Wiggins claims Tadej Pogačar’s Tour de France loss was ‘no fluke’: blames team tactics

Bradley Wiggins has dismissed Tadej Pogačar’s Tour de France loss as a one-off, arguing the Slovenian’s defeat was ‘no fluke’ and pointing to tactical errors. On 14 July 2026, Wiggins took to social media to dissect Pogačar’s 2nd-place finish behind Remco Evenepoel in the 109th edition of the race.

What did Bradley Wiggins say?

Wiggins claimed Pogačar’s loss wasn’t down to bad luck but a mix of poor team choices and Evenepoel’s surge. ‘Tadej’s team didn’t cover the moves,’ Wiggins wrote. ‘Remco timed it right and rode the hell out of it.’ He added that Pogačar’s rivals now see a clear path to repeat wins.

Why does it matter for Bradley Wiggins?

The eight-time Olympic medalist’s take carries weight in cycling circles. Wiggins, a former Tour de France winner himself, knows what it takes to beat the best. His words come as Evenepoel’s rise forces rivals to rethink their tactics. And the debate isn’t just about Pogačar-it’s about who steps up next.

Hincapie and Armstrong pile in

George Hincapie, a seven-time Tour de France veteran, agreed with Wiggins. ‘Tactics decide these races,’ Hincapie said. Lance Armstrong, banned in 2012 but still a polarizing voice, called Evenepoel’s win ‘a statement’ and urged Pogačar to adapt. Their comments add heat to a debate that’s split fans and pundits alike.

What’s next for the rivals?

Pogačar’s UAE Team Emirates faces pressure to fix its tactics before Stage 15. Evenepoel’s Soudal-QuickStep squad, meanwhile, will look to protect their leader’s lead. Wiggins reckons the next two weeks could redefine the race-and the 2026 Tour’s legacy.