Del Toro gets a lot of freedom from Pogacar but doesn’t want to take his chances

UAE Emirates XRG had two riders on the podium at Strade Bianche on Saturday. Tadej Pogacar won, and Isaac Del Toro finished third behind Paul Seixas in the Italian gravel classic. "I’m very happy with my podium spot," Del Toro said afterward to, among others, Cycling Pro Net.

"We worked well as a team from start to finish. I couldn’t be happier with how the day went," continued the 22-year-old rider. "After Tadej broke away, we had to respond to all the attacks. I tried to counter almost everyone. Then I rode away with Paul Seixas. He made the decisive move in the finale, and I was able to follow him. I’m happy with my podium place. This is a great bonus for us. I’m super proud to be standing here."

Del Toro was asked what he thinks of Seixas, who, at only 19 years old, managed to position himself between Pogacar and Del Toro. "He’s very strong. He has already shown that in other races. He also knows how to control his bike. I’m really happy to race against such strong riders."

Helping Pogacar
The cooperation with Pogacar went very well, said Del Toro, who emphasized he was never focused on his own success. "He attacks a bit earlier but often gives me a lot of freedom to race on my own. Honestly, I don’t take those opportunities because I’m here to help him. I’m more than happy to do that. I thought it was great that I could control the situation behind him."