'The first goal is to enjoy the Tour de France' – Chasing GC not the only ambition for Tom Pidcock on return to cycling's biggest race

Tom Pidcock is preparing for his return to the Tour de France with a focus on both performance and enjoyment. Currently training at altitude in Sierra Nevada alongside his Pinarello-Q36.5 teammates, Pidcock is building the physical and mental resilience needed for the three-week race. While he aims to target the general classification (GC), his primary goal remains to embrace the experience and take satisfaction from the process, a mindset encouraged by his coach and Head of Performance, Kurt Bogaerts. Pidcock’s recent form highlights his versatility and potential as a Grand Tour contender. Last year, he finished third overall at the Vuelta a España, demonstrating his ability to compete consistently over three weeks despite the race’s challenges, including disruptions from protests. Bogaerts emphasises that Pidcock approaches each day with clear objectives—first to avoid losing time, then to seek stage wins, and finally to aim for a high GC placing—all while maintaining enjoyment. This strategic approach will be replicated at the Tour de France, where Pidcock hopes to improve on his 13th place finish from 2023. The rider’s recent season has been marked by a blend of road and mountain bike racing, which appears to benefit his mental recovery and overall energy. After a knee injury sustained at the Volta a Catalunya, Pidcock bounced back with a stage victory at the Tour of the Alps and a win in the Nové Město Mountain Bike World Cup. Bogaerts notes that mountain biking provides a positive mental stimulus for Pidcock, complementing his road ambitions. The team is currently finalising its roster for the Tour, with Pidcock set to race the Tour de Suisse as part of his build-up. Looking ahead, Pidcock and Bogaerts have outlined a series of progressive goals for the 2026 Tour de France. While a podium finish remains a long-term aspiration, the immediate targets include being in peak condition at the start, pursuing stage wins when opportunities arise, and aiming for a top-10 GC finish. Pidcock acknowledges the difficulty of sustaining focus over three weeks but remains confident in his potential, recalling his dominance in the 2020 Giro Next Gen race. The coming weeks will be crucial for building momentum, with hopes of success in the Tour de Suisse setting the tone for a strong Tour de France campaign.