Tom Pidcock is facing a setback in his preparation for the 2026 Tour de France, as he has withdrawn from the Tour de Suisse due to a recent infection. The Pinarello Q36.5 team announced this development on Tuesday morning.
Infection Impacts Training Schedule
Pidcock contracted a mild viral infection at an altitude training camp in Sierra Nevada, which limited his training sessions. This has resulted in a necessary change in his race calendar.
Withdrawal from Tour de Suisse
The Tour de Suisse was intended to be a final preparation event for Pidcock ahead of his return to the Tour de France, which he last participated in during 2024. The team stated that the decision to remove him from the race was made to prioritize his recovery and ensure adequate training time.
Future Plans
- The Andorra MoraBanc Classica is scheduled for June 21, provided Pidcock’s health improves.
- Pidcock currently resides in Andorra, focusing on recovery and training.
Having only competed minimally since the Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Pidcock’s recent successes include a second-place finish at Eschborn-Frankfurt and a victory at the Nové Město XCO mountain bike World Cup in May. However, the Tour de Suisse was seen as crucial for his competition readiness in July.
Looking Ahead to the Tour de France
Pidcock is set to participate in the Tour de France, starting with the Grand Départ in Barcelona on July 4. He will have 18 days to recover fully before this high-profile event.
Goals for the Tour
In his fourth Tour de France, Pidcock aims to focus on enjoyment while hoping to achieve better results than in previous years. His past participation includes a notable stage victory at Alpe d’Huez in 2022, alongside a disappointing overall performance.
His best Grand Tour result came at the Vuelta a España in late 2025, where he finished third overall. If Pidcock can regain his form, he is expected to lead the Pinarello Q36.5 team with aims for stage wins and improved overall standings in the upcoming Tour de France.
