"I don't think Tom Pidcock could have won" - Armstrong and Bruyneel believe Pogacar was simply too strong to defeat at Strade Bianche

Strade Bianche provided with the expected spectacle this weekend and without a doubt has automatically become one of the races of the year. A bloodied Tadej Pogacar won in Siena solo just like last year. Lance Armstrong, Johan Bruyneel and George Hincapie believe even in these conditions a top-form Tom Pidcock couldn't have finished the job.

The trio looked into those who flew under the radar for a surprising result, and a particular ride caught the attention. "I enjoy his racing style. It doesn't matter what kind of race it is; he always puts in a good performance and is often one of the most important men in the race. I have a lot of respect for that guy," Armstrong said in The Move podcast.

His compatriot and former teammate George Hincapie also complemented the Irishman. "In the interview, Healy indicated that he wanted a good result. He decided not to follow Pogacar, which, in my opinion, was wise. But seeing how he rode behind the leaders is quite impressive, and he was perhaps one of the best men in the race."

However this battle for the podium happened minutes behind the rainbow jersey who won the Italian classic for the third time in his career - and will have a gravel sector named after him as a result. A high-speed crash looked to be the unexpected obstacle to Pogacar on the day, but not even that prevented him from coming back to the front and making the difference.

Armstrong really has no doubt looking back: "I don't think Tom Pidcock could have won. He really is a great rider, but he never could have won against Pogacar." The Slovenian seems to continue showing his form of 2024, and Milano-Sanremo will be his next and very interesting challenge. 

Johan Bruyneel believes the Briton even did good waiting for Pogacar, as his podium spot later on would be at risk if he didn't work with the Slovenian. "Tom is very strong, but if he hadn't waited, he probably never would have finished second. Still, I thought Pogacar looked less strong than in previous years."