Pogačar Wins Record Fourth Strade Bianche, Warns of Rising Rival Seixas
– Tadej Pogačar continued his dominance of Strade Bianche, securing a record-breaking fourth victory in the Tuscan classic. The world champion’s triumph wasn’t simply a display of power, but a strategic masterclass that hinted at a changing of the guard in professional cycling, with 19-year-old Paul Seixas emerging as a potential rival.
Pogačar launched his decisive attack with remaining, mirroring his aggressive tactics from previous wins. This year’s move came on the gravel sector of Monte Sante Marie, a familiar launching pad for the Slovenian. While he’s previously ridden alone for extended distances to claim victory, this time the response from Seixas forced Pogačar to dig deeper and refine his strategy.
“I was impressed with Paul. He did a super good ride,” Pogačar admitted after the race. The acknowledgment speaks volumes, considering Pogačar’s typically reserved praise for competitors. Seixas’ ability to briefly challenge Pogačar’s initial surge was a clear indication of his burgeoning talent and a signal that the established order may be facing a challenge.
The race unfolded as a compelling duel between experience and youthful ambition. Few riders have been able to respond to Pogačar’s accelerations, but Seixas managed to stay within contact, even closing the gap momentarily. This prompted Pogačar to increase his effort, recognizing the threat posed by the young Frenchman.
“I looked back at one point after the first steep section and he was not that far behind. He was actually really close. So I said ‘OK’ and realised that I need to really leave it all out there and try to snap the gap,” Pogačar explained, revealing the internal calculation that drove his relentless pace. “Luckily I succeeded. Otherwise, I think he would have been on the wheel.”
Once Pogačar established a more comfortable lead, he was able to manage his effort and even savor the moment, a luxury not always afforded in such demanding races. He acknowledged the presence of Isaac del Toro in the chase group, but his focus remained on maintaining his advantage over Seixas.
“When I was attacking, I was thinking that the new kid Seixas is really good, and that I need to be better to make the gap grow as quick as possible,” Pogačar said. “Then I was thinking what the gap might be and [where] Isaac was. Then once I get that info, I start to think about the road ahead and even enjoy the crowds, managing my effort, eating and drinking. I even had time for my personal thoughts.”
Seixas ultimately finished second, a remarkable achievement for a rider making his debut in the race. He demonstrated his strength by distancing del Toro on the steep final climb of Via Santa Caterina, solidifying his position as a rising star in the sport. Del Toro secured third place, completing the podium and showcasing the depth of talent within the UAE Team Emirates-XRG squad.
Pogačar’s victory extends his record at Strade Bianche, surpassing Fabian Cancellara’s previous benchmark of three wins. More importantly, it serves as a powerful statement of intent early in the season, reinforcing his status as the rider to beat.
“Winning Strade Bianche is reassuring. It’s a good start of the season. It’s one of the biggest races, one of the most beautiful races in the world. To win Strade Bianche gives me confidence and motivation for the rest of the season,” Pogačar stated.
The emergence of Seixas, however, adds a new dynamic to the competitive landscape. While Pogačar remains the dominant force, the young Frenchman’s performance suggests that a genuine challenge to his reign may be on the horizon. The race wasn’t just a celebration of Pogačar’s continued success, but a glimpse into the future of cycling, where a new generation is poised to challenge the established order.
Pogačar’s next competitive appointment is Milan-Sanremo in two weeks, a race he acknowledges presents a different set of challenges. However, the confidence gained from his Strade Bianche victory will undoubtedly serve him well as he prepares for the next chapter of the season.