“Pogacar is a normal person, but on the bike he’s a real…” Majka talks about Tadej and explains his retirement

In recent years, Rafal Majka has been one of the best domestiques in the entire peloton, thanks to his climbing abilities and vast experience. But there was a time when the Polish rider was one of the top climbers on the international scene, as shown by his results in Grand Tours, including polka dot jerseys at the Tour de France and various other victories.

After racing from 2011 to today, he has decided to call it quits, even though his performances are still of a very high level. He explained his reasons to Cyclingnews, admitting that he’s still capable of riding for another season, but that now there’s something he understandably desires more: spending time with his children. In the interview, Rafal also spoke about Pogacar, the team leader he has supported in recent years and for whom he will ride one last time in his final race: Il Lombardia.

Here are his words:

“I wanted to stop while still at the top level. After the Giro I thought I could do one more year, but spending time with family is important too, after so many years living out of a suitcase. I also wanted to finish while wearing the Polish national champion’s jersey, so I’m really happy to be racing here at the Tour of Poland.

I just raced the Tour of Austria and finished third overall, even though I was working for the GC leader and final winner Del Toro. But then you see your kids growing up and you’re never home. This is my decision, because I want to enjoy life more and ride my bike without having to work.

Pogacar is a normal person and I spend a lot of time with him in hotel rooms, but on the bike he’s a real killer. Finishing with him at Il Lombardia will be really special. It’s great to work for the best rider in the world. It’s easier on my mind and I’ve enjoyed these last five years more. When I was a team leader, of course I had fun, but as you get older, you think: ‘Yeah, maybe it’s better to be a domestique.’

Skipping the Vuelta for Pogacar was the smartest decision, especially after such a tough Tour. The average speed was very high, and it’s better to take it easy and focus on the next season, because he can win many more races.”

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