"It could be a bigger group at the finish than most people think" - Tom Pidcock doesn't expect long range solo from Pogacar/Evenepoel/Van der Poel in WC road race
CyclingSunday, 29 September 2024 at 14:30
Already a world champion in two different disciplines, Tom Pidcock is out to claim the Rainbow Jersey on the road this Sunday afternoon in Zurich. Given his form is somewhat unknown heading into the race, Pidcock also has the benefit of flying a little under the radar.
"After the concussion (sustained at the Tour of Britain ed.), I was frustrated," admits the Great British rider in his pre-race interview for Eurosport, referencing the fact he comes into Zurich a touch undercooked. "It is what it is, but it's not nice. It's a world championship, so you know it's going to be tough. But anyway, I'm going to do my best."
A lumpy and punchy parcours, the Zurich course is arguably very well suited to a peak Pidcock. Given he isn't at that very top level however, the INEOS Grenadiers star isn't being touted by many to challenge the likes of Tadej Pogacar, Remco Evenepoel and Mathieu van der Poel among others. "If you had percentages like that in Belgium or France, it could be very tough. Here it could also be super fast," Pidcock previews though, not willing to completely write off his own chances. "It could be a bigger group at the finish than most people think. It will be very tough, but the level within the field of participants is very high.”
As mentioned though, the fact not many are talking of Pidcock could be a big benefit to the Brit and his compatriots such as Stephen Williams and the Yates brothers. “There are big favourites and we have remained under the radar so far. Hopefully we can use that to our advantage," he concludes with a smile. "I want to focus on being there on the road and really competing more often in the finals and for the victories. I may not be 100%, but that should not stop me from going for it.”
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santiagobenites18-05-2025
I quite like Pidcock, he says wahat he thinks unlike many others who say what people want to hear. I think if he puts 100% focus on road racing he could be a great one-day racer. I don't think he will ever make a great stage racer. Just my opinion.
Yet further proof that his ability to read a race is completely disproportionate to the size of his ego.
If it wasn't for seeing the startlist, I wouldn't have even known Pidcock was in the race so little did he factor.
Excellent prediction though 🤦♂️
I guess you pushed Tadej into his decision then
Pidcock has an immaculate track record of predicting something that is the opposite of what ends up happening.
Tom should bet money on having the same kind of redemption season next year that Ben O’Connor had this year.
Because he won’t.
Completely wrong and did not even figure in the finale
Well that prediction didn’t stick