This week, James and Will are joined by Nico Roche. Nico was a pro-rider from 2004-2021 during which time he won numerous races including two Vuelta a España stages. His long career saw spells at Team Sky, Saxobank and BMC, though as we learn, it was with French teams AG2R, Crédit Agricole and Cofidis that Nico felt most at home. The Vuelta was Nico's favourite race, so we kick off by asking what makes that race so special, and does it get the respect it deserves?

Today, Nico is still very much involved in the sport as gravel racing privateer and top cycling pundit. As such, our chat really goes around the houses in expert fashion, from assessments of Pogačar at this year’s Tour, to team dynamics, to the evolution of training, to what it was like being a young pro with Stephen Roche as your father.

We thoroughly enjoyed this one; Nico was a wonderful guy to talk to and very generous with his time, so thanks Nico! And to you, dear listener, we hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did.

Interview begins at 6.52

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