UAE Team Emirates - XRG: Pogačar nobleman João Almeida extends for two years

Contract extension after most successful year to date

UAE Team Emirates - XRG has tied one of its most important climbers to the team for the long term. João Almeida has signed a two-year contract extension that binds him to the team until the end of 2028. The 27-year-old Portuguese rider's contract, which originally ran until 2026, has thus been extended by two seasons. The decision follows Almeida's most successful season of his career to date, as confirmed by the team's management.

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Almeida switched from Deceuninck - Quick Step to the team from the Emirates in 2022 and quickly developed into a key figure. His versatility between leadership role and helper makes him particularly valuable to the team. "I am really happy to continue my journey with UAE Team Emirates - XRG," said Almeida in the team's statement. The environment, professionalism and trust have helped him to become a better driver.

Three-time WorldTour winner in 2025

The 2025 season marked the high point of Almeida's career to date. The climber won three WorldTour stage races: the Tour of the Basque Country, Tour of Romandie and Tour de Suisse. In the Tour of the Basque Country and Tour de Suisse, he also collected a total of five stage wins. These successes underpinned his position as one of the most consistent tour riders in the peloton.

Almeida had to retire early from the Tour de France after a crash, but successfully focussed on the Vuelta a España. There he led the UAE team to seven stage wins and finished second overall behind Jonas Vingegaard. This result was his best Grand Tour result and underlined his potential for future overall victories.

Perfect balance between guidance and support

Almeida's role in the team is characterised by his flexibility. He takes the lead in smaller tours, while supporting Tadej Pogačar in the Tour de France without batting an eyelid. This dual role worked successfully in 2024 and 2025, with the team winning both editions of the Tour. "We have achieved great results together over the past few seasons, but I have the feeling that much more is possible," emphasised Almeida.

While other drivers struggled with their role, the Portuguese driver knows exactly when it's time to make an appearance himself. But more importantly, he has no problem subordinating himself and putting himself fully at the service of his captain Tadej Pogačar. There had recently been unrest in the team because Juan Ayuso did not want to take on this role unconditionally. Almeida knows that he is unlikely to win the Tour in the coming years. However, the contract extension offers other advantages.

Above all, it gives Almeida the desired stability for his career planning. "Extending my contract gives me the confidence and stability to continue working towards these goals," explained the Portuguese. With great team-mates and support staff around him, he feels motivated for the tasks ahead.

Future plans and Grand Tour ambitions

The question of Almeida's 2026 Grand Tour programme remains open. While Tadej Pogačar is once again targeting the Tour de France and Isaac del Toro is likely to lead the Giro d'Italia, Almeida could once again take the lead role at the Vuelta a España. His strong performances this season make many things seem possible.