Coll de Rates KOM 'could've been much faster' according to Tadej Pogacar, who admits hiding many Strava sessions

In the depths of winter there is no racing on the road, and so the spotlight often falls on unexpected topics. During the month of December, with most World Tour teams training in the 'Costa Blanca', Tadej Pogacar took the spotlight by taking the KOM in the area's most famous ascent the Coll de Rates. However the World Champion admits that it was a time that could've been further improved if the team was taking it seriously.

It was another moment of confirmation of the Slovenian's climbing prowess and form despite being in the middle of December. Wielerflits talked to the UAE Team Emirates - XRG rider about this effort. The climb is used by many riders for testing and training and due to it's proximity to towns like Calpe and Altea, where hundreds of pro riders are based for weeks in those months, many go all-out up the climb for a shot at the KOM of the climb, which is "only" 6.5 kilometers long at 5.5%. With plenty amateur riders on the spot that day, it was also possible to get footage of his effort, which consisted of a leadout by some teammates before a few minutes of solo effort.

Pogacar put in a time of 12:21 minutes, 17 seconds faster than the previous KOM holder Peter Oxenberg, whose effort was notable enough to attract the attention of INEOS Grenadiers who eventually signed the youngster. He told the Dutch news outlet that the KOM attempt was a fun moment and no an all-out serious effort, hence a time that could realistically be improved.

He reveals that he would likely have KOM's in many other climbs in the area, but that he does not share these training sessions on Strava for obvious reasons. "Then there will definitely be a few more KOM's," he joked.