Tadej Pogacar's quest for cycling's ultimate glory faces a formidable challenge in the iconic races of Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix, according to Chris Horner's insightful analysis. Despite his remarkable achievements, Pogacar's pursuit of the elusive 'holy grail' demands a strategic evolution, as Horner emphasizes the importance of advanced tactics in these prestigious races.
In the latest podcast episode, Horner highlights the need for Pogacar to learn the art of tactical decision-making, particularly in high-pressure situations. He draws a parallel between Pogacar and the legendary Eddy Merckx, acknowledging their shared pursuit of cycling greatness.
The focus shifts to the 2026 season, where Pogacar aims to secure a fifth Tour de France victory, matching Merckx's record. However, Horner stresses that this feat alone won't elevate Pogacar's legacy to the level of Merckx. The missing pieces in Pogacar's palmarès are Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix, which would solidify his status as a true cycling icon.
Horner delves into the tactical maturity of Pogacar and the UAE Team Emirates, noting significant improvements since 2022. He recalls a pivotal moment in the 2022 Tour de France, where Pogacar's mistakes led to a costly defeat on the Col du Granon. Since then, the team has refined its strategy, learning to manage attacks and support Pogacar's stage wins.
The key to success, according to Horner, lies in the 'abort button.' He emphasizes the importance of adapting to race conditions, especially in the crucial Cipressa corner of Milan-San Remo. Horner suggests that Pogacar must learn to make swift tactical decisions, even when the pre-race plan deviates from the expected scenario.
For San Remo, Horner proposes an 'Advanced Strategy' involving controlled pacing and positioning. He advises backing off the throttle to create opportunities for riders like Isaac Del Toro to gain an advantage. By executing this strategy, Pogacar can navigate the Poggio with a strong supporting cast, ensuring he isn't isolated during the final ascent.
Turning to Paris-Roubaix, Horner advises patience and strategic reliance on rival teams. He suggests avoiding early aggression and letting teams like Alpecin and Visma-Lease a Bike take the lead, as Pogacar did not have the necessary support to challenge Mathieu van der Poel last year. This approach aims to conserve energy for the crucial moments in the race.
In conclusion, Horner's analysis underscores the importance of tactical prowess in Pogacar's pursuit of cycling's grandest races. By embracing strategic decision-making and adapting to race dynamics, Pogacar can elevate his game and secure his legacy as a true cycling champion.
