'You never know when is the last one' - Roglic admits retirement an option ahead of Il Lombardia

Primož Roglič will race with Remco Evenepoel for the first time this season at Il Lombardia, with the Italian Classic his last major race in Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe colours and possibly the last race of his career.

The Slovenian has been linked to Tudor Pro Cycling, Pinarello-Q36.5 and Lotto Intermarché for 2027, but his successful Vuelta a España and his recent victory at the European Championships time trial appear to have changed his plans.

On Friday two sources told Domestique that Roglič could decide to retire rather than race on into 2027, ending his career on a high, two weeks before his 37th birthday. He could even announce his decision to retire on Sunday during an event in Slovenia for his foundation. 

Speaking at Il Lombardia, Roglič was typically coy on his plans, though he conceded that retirement was an option he was considering.

"You never know when is the last one, like everything in life, so it can be a bit emotional. But I'm looking forward to it," Roglič said of Il Lombardia.

Asked directly if he will race next year, Roglič said: "We will see. I think so but it's more difficult. It's just more and more difficult to really find or do the right thing. At the moment the reality is that I'm here and I have a race. I have to do first things first. These races come first and then I can speak and try to figure out where and how it will look my future." 

Whatever Roglič's decision, Il Lombardia will bring the curtain down on his three successful years with Red Bull.

"Primož was the first big rider to join the team when we became part of Red Bull," team manager Ralph Denk told Domestique.

"He could have been on the podium at the Tour in 2024 without the crash but a few weeks later he won the Vuelta and that was a special moment for the team. He can be proud of his career.

"He could be a rival in 2027 but I don't know if that will happen. His career and his season shows how deep he loves this sport, but his bank account is big enough for him to retire happily."