"He’s the best cyclist we’ve ever seen" - Tadej Pogacar impresses former Milano-Sanremo winner Arnaud Démare

10 years ago, Arnaud Démare won Milano-Sanremo. Nowadays the first monument of the season is a very different race, one where the sprinters don't have realistic chances of succeeding, but instead it is the classics riders and climbers who have taken the spotlight. The French legend has praised Tadej Pogacar, who won this year's edition, as potentially the best that this sport has ever seen.

“I think he’s the best cyclist we’ve ever seen. At times, it even looks like he’s searching for something more, like he needs a different kind of challenge," Démare said in words to RCM Sport. Démare argued that Pogacar operates under a different set of goals, due to his ability on the climbs. It is ultimately something that has given him the opportunity to fight for wins in almost every race he starts; whilst he is also well within range to win Paris-Roubaix.

This difference in ability isn't just noticeable on the mountains, but also in the moments where he does not have to hit the front. “You’re at full gas, thinking about positioning before a climb, and he’s completely relaxed. That’s when you understand the gap," the former pro says.

However Démare, now as a fan of cycling and not part of the sport from the inside, does understand the argument for this domination to remove the edge and excitement from some races. “There are moments where you already know how it’s going to end. That changes the way people watch.”

And then on the other hand, there are the races that suit other riders better, in which the Pogacar element dares to change the dynamics. Paris-Roubaix is the prime example, being a flat cobbled classic without a single climb where he can on paper make the difference. “He goes there because it’s different. Because it’s not straightforward, because it’s not something he can dominate in the same way.”

At this point in the World Champion's career, that is a key element regarding motivation, something which is not easy in a sport that demands so many sacrifices just to be part of it.

“He’s competitive everywhere. That’s what makes the difference. When he’s on the start line, you’re often riding for second place," he concluded.