'Pogacar is redefining the sport, but Vingegaard can twist his face' - Contador on the upcoming 2026 season

Alberto Contador has hailed 2025 as "a beautiful year" for cycling, singling out Tadej Pogačar as "an athlete who is redefining sport" while identifying Jonas Vingegaard as potentially the only rider capable of challenging the Slovenian's dominance.

Speaking to Marca after presenting the new Aurum bike he developed with Ivan Basso, the Spanish Grand Tour legend reflected on a season marked by memorable battles in both classics and stage races.

"All the classics have been very close," Contador said, particularly impressed by the showdowns between Van der Poel and Pogačar. "Those duels are to be framed. That the winner of the Tour decides to enter the hell of Paris Roubaix, take risks, get muddy, risk his skin... That's cycling of the one who hits in the chest."

When asked about the grand tours, Contador was equally enthusiastic. "We have seen an incredible show. In the Tour he [Pogacar] has been clearly superior," he said, while also praising Remco Evenepoel's World Championship performance: "What he did at the World Cup was crazy. That's how you run when you're not afraid of losing."

Regarding the persistent Pogacar-Merckx comparisons, Contador urged caution. "It's a constant question... but it is a mistake to face it in this way. They are different times," he explained. "Today half of them compete. We can't compare numbers. Let's enjoy Pogacar. It's unique. Every race with him is a gift."

Looking ahead to 2026, Contador believes Vingegaard remains Pogacar's most credible challenger. "It's difficult, but there's Vingegaard. He knows what it's like to win twice, he's meticulous, cool, absolutely professional. If anyone can twist Tadej's face, it's him."

Contador also expressed particular optimism about the future of Spanish cycling. "It's exciting. We have a tremendous litter: Ayuso, Carlos Rodríguez, who has been punished more than necessary by bad luck, Pericas, Pablo Torres... and veterans like Enric [Mas] or Landa who can still make noise," he said.

When asked specifically about Juan Ayuso's Grand Tour potential, Contador was unequivocal. "Of course. He has the talent and, now, a fantastic structure behind him. I know that house well. They are a professional team, top in the world in results. He is going to have a very powerful bloc at his side."

Regarding his own Polti Visit Malta project, Contador outlined clear ambitions. "Our goal is to have a wildcard in the Giro again. The team is ready to make the leap to the WorldTour. We need the sponsor to make it possible. Hopefully it will come soon... and if it is Spanish, all the better."

The seven time Grand Tour winner also firmly rejected suggestions to shorten three week races. "No. It would be to lose part of its essence. I was a runner who exploded in the third week. How are you going to compare two with three? That's where romanticism lies. The epic. The territory where only the chosen ones arrive."