“I think he actually left it pretty late for Tadej” - Ben Healy battles to fifth on Mur de Huy as Pogacar storms to Flèche Wallonne glory

Tadej Pogacar powered to a commanding victory at the 2025 edition of La Flèche Wallonne, launching an explosive attack on the brutal slopes of the Mur de Huy that no one could follow. While the Slovenian rode clear to celebrate yet another major win, EF Education–EasyPost's Ben Healy put in a strong performance of his own, finishing fifth just 13 seconds behind.

For much of the decisive final ascent, Healy was Pogacar’s nearest challenger. The Irish rider opted for a long-range approach rather than waiting for the final kick, a tactic that ultimately paid off with a top-five result on one of cycling’s most punishing climbs.

“Yeah, you know I'm not the most explosive,” Healy told Cycling Pro Net after the race. “So, if I just make it as long as possible, I think that's a better effort for me. And yeah, I just held a solid tempo all the way to the top.”

When Pogacar made his move, Healy, like the rest of the field, could only watch him go. “I mean yeah, Tadej went and I don't think anyone was anywhere close to following him.”

Healy wasn’t shocked by the Slovenian’s attack but noted that the timing was actually later than expected. “Well, that's what he likes to do. I mean, I think he actually left it pretty late for Tadej.”

After showing strong form at several races earlier in the season, Healy’s ride on the Mur de Huy further confirmed that he’s in excellent shape heading into the rest of the Ardennes Classics, in particular Liege-Bastogne-Liege this weekend.

“Yeah, for sure. I mean I wasn't really expecting that, if I'm completely honest,” he admitted to the cameras. “The Mur isn't my cup of tea, I guess. So yeah, I mean fifth place — I'm pretty happy with that.”