Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar breaks 37-year cycling record – ‘I can’t believe it’
Tour de France Champion Tadej Pogačar Breaks 37-Year Cycling Record – “I Can’t Believe It”
Tadej Pogačar has added another historical achievement to his remarkable cycling career by winning the men’s elite road race at the World Championships in Zurich on Sunday. With this victory, the 26-year-old Slovenian superstar became the first male cyclist to complete the prestigious Giro d’Italia-Tour de France double, followed by the World Championships crown — a feat last achieved by Irishman Stephen Roche in 1987.
Pogačar’s domination of the 274km race was nothing short of extraordinary. Breaking away with 100 kilometers still to go, he chased down a large breakaway group and led the charge. As the kilometers wore on, Pogačar showcased his elite stamina and strategy by opening up a one-minute gap after leaving behind Russia’s Pavel Sivakov. This decisive solo effort left the field struggling to keep up as he soared toward the finish line.
Despite a late challenge from Olympic gold medallist Remco Evenepoel and defending world champion Mathieu van der Poel, who cut his lead to just 40 seconds, Pogačar stayed composed. The Slovenian ace’s tactical prowess allowed him to navigate the long descent into Zurich with ease, ultimately crossing the finish line 34 seconds ahead of his nearest rival, Australia’s Ben O’Connor. Van der Poel secured the bronze medal, while Ireland’s Ben Healy narrowly missed out on a podium finish after a spirited ride.
Pogačar’s victory adds the rainbow jersey to his already dazzling collection of accolades, which includes two Tour de France titles and multiple victories in other prestigious cycling events. The Slovenian sensation, who is only 26 years old, has established himself as one of the most dominant riders in the sport.
Speaking after the race, an elated Pogačar said, “I cannot believe what just happened. After this kind of season, I put a lot of pressure on myself for today. To take this win is beyond anything I could have imagined.”
With this victory, Pogačar not only solidifies his position among cycling’s greats but also etches his name in history by breaking a 37-year-old record. It marks another defining moment in his career and adds to his legacy as one of the most talented and accomplished cyclists of his generation.
