For Team Jumbo-Visma, it is the fourth victory of the season as Dylan Groenewegen already raised his hands three times earlier this year. It is Roglic’s first national road title in his career.

The 146-kilometre championship was decided on the final climb. After the early breakaway was caught, Roglic attacked. Pogacar managed to return, but was unable to counter a second attack by his compatriot and good friend in the final kilometre.

“It is really wonderful that the situation allows us to finally race again and to do what we do best, racing our bikes. I am therefore very happy that I was able to take the national title in my first race of the season”, said Roglic, who will also contest the national time trial championship next week. “It was a tough race with a very tough final climb. Given the results in the spring, Tadej was the favourite and it was certainly not easy to beat him. I had reckoned the climb well in the past few days, so I knew where I had to attack. The fact that I take the victory here in my first race of the season feels very good. I am definitely not in top form yet, but I am already looking forward to the upcoming races. I also want to thank the team for making the effort to support me in Slovenia. That means a lot to me.”