< Why do you think your first pro year was a bit disappointing?

> “I suffered an injury early on, followed by a crash with quite a significant impact. It wasn't a dream start, then. I also realized that the difference in level between the U23s and the WorldTour is quite significant. On the other hand, it may have been an important learning year, where I immediately encountered the downsides of cycling. But that was also interesting. It's positive that I learned a lot, but I'm not happy with the results. That really needs to improve in the coming year.”
< Did those high expectations make the season extra tough for you?

> “Absolutely. I think there's a lot of pressure on young riders. I definitely feel it too. Everyone thinks I'm going to be a good rider, which is their right. But they also think I'll reach the pros and immediately win my first races. Of course, it doesn't work that way. Everyone has their own growth path and career. I have to focus on myself and not listen to what people say. But that's difficult, because everyone wants me to win.”

< Is that pressure sometimes too much?

> “If I'm honest, yes. I think it hinders my performance. If you don't win, it doesn't mean you're doing badly. But it does feel that way sometimes. That was frustrating at a certain point. You start to think it's not good enough. That's really difficult as a young rider. But I've found support within the team now, and they're helping me focus on myself.”

Pablo Torres in the NGMI zone