In a jaw-dropping display of camaraderie, two cycling titans choose a surprising method to determine the winner

In a thrilling twist during the Tour of Slovenia back in 2022, the cycling world witnessed an extraordinary moment as competitors Rafal Majka and Tadej Pogacar opted for an unconventional method to decide the winner of their closely contested race. The epic showdown unfolded when the two teammates, both representing UAE Team Emirates, crossed the finish line simultaneously.

In a sport renowned for its grueling hours and intense competition, this unscripted display of sportsmanship left spectators in awe. Rather than resorting to a photo finish or relying on race officials, Majka and Pogacar decided to settle the score with a quick round of ‘rock, paper, scissors’. It was a noble and, dare we say, hilarious gesture that has now become the talk of the cycling town.

The video capturing this unexpected turn of events has recently resurfaced on social media, captivating viewers who are eager to unravel the story behind the impromptu game. Majka emerged victorious, securing his second stage win of the Tour as his paper tactfully trumped Pogacar’s rock.

Fernando Barceló of Caja Rural–Seguros RGA trailed behind the Emirates duo, finishing 22 seconds later, blissfully unaware of the rock, paper, scissors theatrics that had unfolded at the forefront.

As the video continues to circulate online, sporting enthusiasts are delving into the intricacies of cycling as a team sport. Contrary to popular belief, cycling is not just an individual pursuit; it’s a collaborative effort where teammates support a designated leader. In this case, Pogacar, the team leader, could have asserted his claim to the stage win. However, his decision to let fate decide through a game of chance showcased gratitude towards Majka, who had been a pillar of support in the preceding days.

Explaining the dynamics of cycling as a team sport, a Reddit user highlighted the various roles teammates play, from shielding the leader from wind resistance to chasing down opponents’ attacks. The ultimate goal is to deliver the team leader across the finish line first, making Pogacar’s gesture a poignant testament to teamwork.

This unorthodox resolution has not only added a layer of intrigue to the cycling community but also underlined the spirit of sportsmanship between Majka and Pogacar. A race settled by rock, paper, scissors may be unconventional, but in the world of cycling, where teamwork is paramount, it’s a brilliant reminder that sometimes camaraderie trumps competition.