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Pogacar teammate Del Toro gets new UAE deal after Tour podium / Photo: Loic VENANCE - AFP
Pogacar teammate Del Toro gets new UAE deal after Tour podium
Young Mexican rider Isaac Del Toro was rewarded with a new UAE contract on Thursday after finishing third in the Tour de France won by superstar teammate Tadej Pogacar.
The Emirati outfit said the 22-year-old would ride in their colours until the end of the 2031 season. Pogacar, who turns 28 next month, is under contract with UAE until 2030.
"The extension represents another significant investment in the future by UAE Team Emirates-XRG, securing one of cycling's most promising young riders through what are expected to be the prime years of his career," the team said in a statement.
Pogacar may go on dominating the sport for many more years after winning a record-equalling fifth Tour de France title but he is likely to face some stiffer opposition from younger rivals.
"Signing long-term gives me a lot of confidence because I know I'm in the right place for my future," said Del Toro who joined UAE in 2024.
"We've already achieved some amazing victories together, but I honestly believe the best is still to come.
"I'm excited to keep growing with this team and fighting for the biggest races in the world."
Alongside team leader Pogacar, the Mexican impressed during the Grande Boucle, winning the second stage in Barcelona and finishing on the the final podium behind "Pogi" and Belgian rider Remco Evenepoel.
He also claimed the white jersey for the best young rider ahead of 19-year-old Frenchman Paul Seixas.
Del Toro had won several races this season notably the UAE Tour, Tirreno-Adriatico and Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
J.Hall--SMC
