'With the right situation, I can win a Grand Tour' – Tom Pidcock sets retirement date and names biggest goal as Tour de France return looms

Tom Pidcock has set a long-term retirement goal, aiming to conclude his professional cycling career after the 2036 Olympic Games. In a recent interview, the British rider emphasised his ambition to secure the World Championships road race title, which he considers his primary objective. While Pidcock acknowledges the prestige of winning a Grand Tour, he admits that three-week stage races do not particularly excite him, despite his strong performances, including a podium finish at last year’s Vuelta a España. Pidcock is preparing for his return to the Tour de France next month, having missed the race in 2025 due to his team’s exclusion. His confidence has grown following consistent results over longer stage races, yet he remains realistic about the challenge posed by dominant figures such as Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard. He believes that under the right circumstances, he could win a Grand Tour, but his focus remains on other career milestones, including winning a Monument classic and adding to his Olympic medal tally. The rider’s recent form has improved noticeably since his move from Ineos Grenadiers to Q36.5, with three victories this year and a notable second place at Milan-San Remo behind Pogačar. Pidcock described his new environment as more positive and conducive to success, which is reflected in his results. Despite the challenges, he maintains a pragmatic outlook, stressing that his achievements have always been the result of careful planning and steady progression rather than sudden breakthroughs. Pidcock’s ambitions extend beyond road racing, as he has already claimed Olympic gold medals in cross-country mountain biking and world titles in cyclo-cross and mountain bike disciplines. His goal to finish his career after five Olympic cycles demonstrates a long-term vision that balances multiple cycling disciplines. With the Tour de France return imminent and a clear set of targets ahead, Pidcock is positioning himself as one of Britain’s most versatile and determined cyclists of his generation.