'A very good mindset' - Wellens praises departing Ayuso's professionalism

Belgian champion Tim Wellens has credited the professionalism of departing UAE Team Emirates-XRG teammate Juan Ayuso and the personality of his current team leader, Tadej Pogačar. Wellens also reflected on a 2025 season in which he accomplished his “ultimate achievement” by winning a stage of the Tour de France.

Speaking to Marca at the Saitama Criterium in Japan, the 34-year-old described Ayuso as having "a very good mindset" when discussing the young Spaniard's approach to the sport.

"Being a professional means different things to everyone. Some need to measure everything down to the millimetre; others need balance to maintain it all year round. At UAE Team Emirates, everyone is very professional. Juan has a very good mindset for managing it," Wellens told Marca.

Ayuso’s early departure from UAE Team Emirates-XRG, freeing himself from a contract that was set to expire at the end of 2028, was confirmed mid-way through the Vuelta a España, though this didn’t stop him and the team from enjoying a fruitful race, with two stage wins for the Spaniard on either side of the announcement, and seven for the team in total. 

When asked how he viewed Ayuso’s decision to leave UAE Team Emirates-XRG for Lidl-Trek, Wellens expressed understanding towards the Spaniard's decision. Wellens also wished his former teammate well, but acknowledged the challenge that he will face with pressure from having more of a leadership role, away from UAE where Pogačar carries the main burden of expectation.

"Juan makes the decision he feels is best for him. But having Pogačar as a benchmark makes life easier. When he's not there, the pressure is greater. We'll see how he does; hopefully very well," said Wellens.

Regarding the world champion, Wellens highlighted Pogačar’s personal qualities alongside his racing ability as key factors why he is so special. "Everyone knows he's the best. But what makes the difference is that he's also one of the best people in the peloton. He stays grounded. That's worth just as much as the victories."

On a personal note, Wellens reflected on a special season for himself, with major victories coming at the Belgian Championships and stage 15 of the Tour de France, both of which were accomplished with long-range solo efforts. Wellens described the significance of these victories.

"It's not my year with the most victories, but it is with the biggest ones. Being national champion in Belgium is huge. And winning a Tour stage in that jersey… It's a dream. I know I'll never win the overall, but for me, that's the ultimate achievement," said Wellens.

One aspect of his own season that Wellens was critical about was his Classics campaign, something he is hungry to improve upon next season. "In 2024, I did very well; in 2025, somewhat less so. In 2026, I want to be back at the front. They are races that require strength… and also luck," said Wellens.

The Belgian was a key part of the UAE’s record-breaking season of victories, and was asked if he believes the team can surpass the 100 mark. "It will be difficult. I thought it was impossible to improve on 2024, and we did it in 2025. Perhaps it will be difficult to repeat it, but this team is full of champions."

After three successful seasons with the team, Wellens looks set to continue to be a valuable member of UAE Team Emirates-XRG after signing a contract extension which runs through until the end of 2027.