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Tom Pidcock’s move to Q36.5 Pro Cycling over the winter has marked the start of what appears to be his best season to date. The British rider has been in sparkling form, securing victories in the AlUla Tour and stage two of the Vuelta a Andalucia, while also consistently contending for top results in other races. However, recent weeks have brought a mix of success and frustration, with Pidcock finishing second in key races, including Strade Bianche, stage three of Tyrrhenian-Adriatic, and the “queen stage” of Tirreno-Adriatico.
In Strade Bianche, Pidcock was narrowly beaten by world champion Tadej Pogačar, a result that sharpened his ambition for Tirreno-Adriatico. During the race’s decisive stage, he was gapped by eventual winner Juan Ayuso (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) with just over 3km to go. Pidcock suggested afterward that he could have stayed with Ayuso, attributing the gap to a tactical error rather than a lack of strength. “I was responding to those attacks. I just let the wheel go a little bit into this corner because I thought ‘ah, we go around the corner,’” he explained. “But he kept on the pedals, a little gap. I should have closed that gap.” Despite this, Pidcock acknowledged Ayuso’s superior performance on the day, stating, “Ayuso was the strongest but I think I could have stayed with him to fight for the win on another day.”
Pidcock’s strong start to 2025 is particularly notable given his struggles last season. While he won the Amstel Gold Race and the Olympic MTB title in 2024, other performances were underwhelming, partly due to dissatisfaction and tensions with his former team, Ineos Grenadiers. These issues culminated in his deselection for Il Lombardia, prompting his move to Q36.5 Pro Cycling. Since joining the team, Pidcock has appeared happier and more consistent, showcasing his talent on multiple occasions.
Despite his impressive form, Pidcock expressed frustration with his recent results. “I am a bit frustrated with myself, which is the worst feeling to come away from a race with, actually,” he said. “My ceiling is higher and I just don’t know my level.” He also praised his teammates for their support during Tirreno-Adriatico, acknowledging their hard work and commitment. “A big credit to the guys, they worked super hard today even before the cameras were on. They committed 100 percent to me so I am a bit disappointed I couldn’t finish it off for them.”
Pidcock’s performances in Tirreno-Adriatico also highlighted his potential in the general classification. After a fatigued 49th place in the opening time trial, likely due to his efforts at Strade Bianche just two days prior, he steadily climbed the standings, moving from 15th to sixth overall by the end of the race. This progress, along with teammate David de la Cruz’s top-eight finish, sends a strong signal to race organizers RCS Sport, who also oversee the Giro d’Italia. Q36.5 Pro Cycling is vying for a wildcard entry to the Italian Grand Tour, and Pidcock’s form makes the team a strong contender for one of the available slots. According to reports, RCS Sport’s Mauro Vegni is delaying the decision in hopes that the Professional Cycling Council will increase the number of wildcards from three to four.
Looking ahead, Pidcock’s next target is Milan-San Remo, a race where he has previously shown aggression. Last year, he launched a promising attack in the final kilometer, only to be caught by then-world champion Mathieu van der Poel. Given his current form, Pidcock is likely to be a prominent figure in this year’s edition as well. His performances in the coming weeks could further bolster Q36.5 Pro Cycling’s case for a Giro wildcard.
Overall, Pidcock’s move to Q36.5 Pro Cycling has reignited his career, with his strong start to the season building momentum for both himself and his team. While recent races have brought moments of frustration, his consistent high-level performances suggest that bigger victories and opportunities, such as a Giro d’Italia wildcard, are well within reach. As Pidcock himself noted, “You live and learn,” and his current trajectory indicates that he is poised for even greater success in the near future.
