Preparing for one of the most prestigious cycling races, Tadej Pogacar and UAE Team Emirates - XRG are setting their eyes on the Milan-Sanremo, the first Monument of the 2025 road season, which will take place on March 22. With past performances showing continual improvement, Pogacar is determined to claim victory, something he has yet to achieve after finishing 5th in 2022, 4th in 2023, and 3rd last year.
While Pogacar is undoubtedly among the leading contenders, he faces significant strategies from past champions, including Caleb Ewan, who has offered insightful advice. According to Ewan, who has previously contested the race, Pogacar made strategic errors by pushing too hard on the Cipressa, which had negative consequences for his team’s dynamics on the Poggio. “The mistake Pogacar made in the past, in my opinion, was... leading to fewer teammates for the Poggio,” Ewan remarked during the Geraint Thomas Cycling Podcast. His advice for the young champion is to maintain pacing over the Cipressa to keep higher numbers of teammates available for the final sprint up the Poggio.
Challenging Ewan’s strategy is Sean Kelly, the Irish cycling icon and two-time Milan-Sanremo winner. Reflecting on Pogacar's earlier struggles, Kelly emphasized the difficulties of achieving victory against sprinters who find themselves breathing down their necks. “Winning Strade Bianche for a third time was great, but he has a big challenge coming up at Milan-Sanremo,” Kelly stated. He pointed out the challenges posed by strong competition, citing the fact coverage of fast riders and optimal tactics need careful consideration. Unless Pogacar finds himself on the right side of fortune with challenging weather conditions, Kelly foreshadows strong sprint finishes as the most likely outcome.
Pogacar’s recent triumph at Strade Bianche deserves mention, which added another feather to his cap. Remarkably, he overcame adversity after crashing at nearly 70 km/h with 51 kilometers to go but managed to recover and still win. “Tadej was top-notch... we will definitely memory this race,” said Andrej Hauptman, sports director for UAE Team Emirates – XRG, reflecting on what was undoubtedly a moment of high tension during the race. The unpredictability of makes gravel racing poses considerable stress for teams, and Hauptman recognized the mental resilience required of riders like Pogacar.
Looking forward to Milan-Sanremo, Hauptman noted the importance of the last week of training, which is pivotal for Pogacar's preparation. With bruises from the crash still fresh, Hauptman explained how even minor injuries can pose challenges. “For now, everything is going according to plan,” he added confidently, reminding onlookers of Pogacar’s relentless pursuit of victory.
Pogacar, known for his unwavering determination, has already resumed his training regimen as he gears up for the Italian Classic. Hauptman revealed, “Tadej is a cyclist who never complains. Even after the fall, he's been focused on what lies ahead.” The sporting community knows how unpredictable bicycle racing can be, and it may suit Pogacar's tactical style, which he hopes to leverage against past challenges.
While the Milan-Sanremo race may not fit entirely with Pogacar’s strengths, it offers opportunities for creative strategies. Hauptman conveyed Pogacar’s love for challenges, indicating his firm belief he can one day conquer this particularly elusive race. “He believes he can win; he knows exactly how to race in such races,” Hauptman concluded. Before the dust settles, it remains to be seen how he plans to navigate the upcoming clash.
A considerable question lingers on Pogacar’s spring cycling calendar; there are talks about his potential debut at Paris-Roubaix later. While his interest seems piqued, the ambition will hinge on the outcomes from Milan-Sanremo, as Hauptman cautiously states they need to see how it goes before making decisions about the subsequent races. This dual focus on preparation for Milan-Sanremo highlights the tension as all eyes will be on Pogacar to see if he can finally break through for the Monument victory this weekend.
