Tadej Pogacar was crowned world champion for the first time
in his career after a stunning solo victory in the
World Championships road
race in Zurich. His remarkable attack, launched 100 kilometres from the finish
line, proved decisive. While the Slovenian’s performance will be remembered for
years to come, credit must also be given to
Ben Healy (Ireland) and Toms
Skujins (Latvia), who chased Pogacar relentlessly for a large portion of the
race.
The duo fought hard to keep Pogacar within reach, but
ultimately their brave efforts fell short, as they were caught and overtaken by
the likes of Ben O’Connor and defending champion Mathieu van der Poel, who
secured silver and bronze respectively.
Reflecting on the race, Healy, who rides for EF
Education-EasyPost, admitted how challenging it was. “It was bloody hard to be
honest. Luckily I was with
Toms Skujins, who was really strong today. I did
what I had to do, but I guess I didn't have the legs today. Thanks Toms!” the
24-year-old Irishman told
In De Leiderstrui. Healy has enjoyed a strong
season, including impressive performances at the Tour de France earlier this
summer.
Skujins, who lost out in the sprint for bronze to Van der
Poel, had no regrets about his performance. “I certainly have no regrets. I did
what I could, but unfortunately I came up short. Tadej started, it was the
Belgians who set a good pace, to not let him get away. But even they had
trouble catching him. So the group got smaller and smaller.”
The Latvian rider also reflected on the challenge of going
up against Van der Poel in the sprint. “I tried everything. I tried a few times
before the sprint, just like many others, but everyone had dead legs. With
Mathieu in the sprint, it is of course very difficult to beat him. O'Connor had
a good move. Everyone tried, but he had good timing and he had read the race
well. Beating Mathieu was a very difficult task, so in the end, only fourth
place remains.”
Despite finishing just outside the medals, both Healy and
Skujins earned praise for their courageous racing and relentless pursuit of
Pogacar, proving they are riders to watch in the years to come.