Tadej Pogacar delivers an awe-inspiring performance in the Tour de France, cementing his status as one of the greatest cyclists with a spectacular time-trial victory and a landmark season

Tadej Pogacar capped an extraordinary cycling season with a stunning performance in the Tour de France, solidifying his standing as one of the sport’s greatest talents. On Sunday, Pogacar delivered an electrifying time-trial ride on stage 21, showcasing his dominance even with the yellow jersey already secured. The 25-year-old Slovenian cruised to a victory in the 34km time trial from Monaco to Nice, leaving his rivals Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel trailing far behind.

Pogacar’s triumph at the Tour de France comes after a phenomenal season that included winning the Giro d’Italia, marking the first time in this century that a rider has claimed both Grand Tours in the same year. His dominance throughout the Tour was undeniable, with his six stage wins—more than any winner since Bernard Hinault in 1979—demonstrating his exceptional prowess. The Slovenian’s aggressive tactics and relentless attacks shattered the peloton repeatedly, underscoring his superior fitness and tactical acumen.

From the start, Pogacar made his intentions clear. He seized the yellow jersey on stage two and went on to secure victories on stages four, 14, 15, 19, 20, and finally stage 21. His performance included a memorable ascent to Plateau de Beille on Bastille Day and an audacious chase of Matteo Jorgenson on the final climb of stage 19. Pogacar’s ability to sustain high power outputs, including a staggering 6.98 watts per kilogram during the Plateau de Beille climb, highlights his extraordinary capabilities.

Despite the challenges and criticisms, Pogacar remained focused and unshaken. His emotional reaction at the finish line underscored the significance of his achievements. “Winning the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia in the same year is an incredible accomplishment,” Pogacar said. “This year everything went to perfection. Even in the Giro, where I had one difficult day, I was confident every day here in the Tour.”

The season’s successes have led to discussions about Pogacar’s potential future achievements. The idea of a triple crown, including a win at the Vuelta a España, is now within reach for the Slovenian star. His dominant performances across multiple races reflect a peak form that may redefine modern road racing.

Pogacar’s teammates and rivals have been left in awe. Joao Almeida praised Pogacar’s strength, while UAE Emirates manager Matxin Fernandez described him as “the best rider I have ever seen.” Pogacar’s outstanding numbers and consistent victories have fueled speculation and admiration, though they have also brought scrutiny. An investigation into the use of carbon monoxide rebreathing equipment by elite teams has stirred controversy, though Pogacar and his team have maintained that such equipment is used solely for performance measurement and not enhancement.

Amidst the speculation, Pogacar’s clean record and rigorous testing reinforce his credibility. The Slovenian attributes his success to significant changes this season, including a new coach, enhanced heat training, and a focus on time-trial performance. Despite an injury-free year and peak form, the cycling world is left to wonder how a fully fit Vingegaard might have altered the outcome. The Danish rider, who suffered severe injuries earlier in the year, showed resilience but was unable to match Pogacar’s superior form.

The 2024 season has seen Pogacar secure victories in prestigious races like Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Strade Bianche, and the Volta a Catalunya, with Milan-San Remo being the only major race he did not win, finishing third. Pogacar’s season stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and a promising indicator of future achievements. As he sets his sights on the potential for a triple crown, the cycling world watches eagerly to see if he can add the Vuelta a España to his already illustrious list of accomplishments.

Analysis:

• Political: Pogacar’s dominance in cycling reinforces Slovenia’s growing prominence in international sports. His achievements could influence national pride and inspire increased support and investment in Slovenian sports programs. On a broader scale, Pogacar’s success highlights the ongoing global competition in cycling, which may prompt political figures and sports organizations to re-evaluate their strategies and support for national athletes.
• Social: Pogacar’s incredible season resonates with the public as a story of perseverance and excellence. His victories capture the imagination of sports enthusiasts and underscore the appeal of cycling as a sport where individual brilliance can shine. The coverage of Pogacar’s achievements also reflects the broader interest in cycling and its ability to produce extraordinary athletes who capture public attention.
• Racial: Pogacar’s success adds to the diverse landscape of elite cycling. As a Slovenian cyclist achieving global recognition, he contributes to the representation of Eastern European athletes in the sport. This success may inspire future generations from various backgrounds to pursue competitive cycling, highlighting the growing diversity within the sport.
• Gender: While this report focuses on male cycling, it’s important to recognize the achievements of female cyclists and the evolving landscape of women’s cycling. The performance of top female cyclists also deserves attention and can provide a fuller picture of the sport’s dynamics. Pogacar’s achievements in the context of cycling’s broader spectrum highlight the need for continued support and recognition of female athletes.
• Economic: Pogacar’s dominance has significant economic implications for the sport. His success boosts viewership and sponsorship opportunities, benefiting the cycling industry. Major races like the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia attract substantial revenue through media rights, sponsorships, and tourism. Pogacar’s achievements can drive interest and investment in cycling, enhancing the financial ecosystem surrounding the sport.