"It’s next to impossible for Tadej to win Paris-Roubaix or to win Milano-Sanremo" - Former pro argues Mathieu van der Poel may be too much of an obstacle for Pogacar

The monuments this season are expected to follow the same trajectory as in 2025, with two riders having the odds stacked up on their side to win all five: Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel. However, both lack two monuments in their palmarès, and Jens Voigt argues that both are unlikely to beat each other in them whilst the other is racing.

“The way I see it, as long as Mathieu van der Poel is active, riding and is in normal shape, it’s next to impossible for Tadej to win Paris-Roubaix or to win Milano-Sanremo," Voigt stated in the Domestique Hotseat podcast. "Because these races just suit Mathieu van der Poel much better".

In Roubaix there is an argument for van der Poel's higher raw power and technical ability, which has now seen him win three editions in a row. However, it is a race where luck also dictates the outcome, and the Dutchman is not immune to that.

Regarding MIlano-Sanremo, he has now won on several occasions as well, showcasing his power on the small climbs whilst packing a very strong sprint and endurance alike. Last year he was on the verge of getting dropped on the Cipressa, as did all other riders in the race. This climb is ultimately the key for Pogacar to win the race.

Meanwhile van der Poel has not won Liège-Bastogne-Liège and Il Lombardia, but argues that whilst the World Champion is racing at a high level, the course and rivals are simply too strong for the Dutchman.

“As long as Tadej Pogacar is racing and wanting to win, it’s next to impossible for Mathieu van der Poel to win the two missing Monuments for him, Liège-Bastogne-Liège and the Giro di Lombardia, because they’re too hilly. I love the clash between those two in the pursuit of greatness to win all five Monuments, year after year. They give it their best and provide a great show.”

The German is now also having an eye on Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe which has evolved significantly over the past few years, and has made another huge investment this winter to sign Remco Evenepoel.

“Remco, what a champion he is, but Remco also is hot or cold. You know, he wins the Vuelta or he blows up in a leader’s jersey and loses 50 minutes in a day,” he said of the Olympic Champion. “It’s good to have a backup system installed," Voigt argues as he believes Evenepoel is prone to emotional decisions.

Remco is growing up, he’s becoming more mature, but we have seen him a few times moving and waving his arms in TV when he is unhappy at World Championships and some races. But I mean, Remco, you’re a world class athlete, people don’t ride for you to make you win. They ride against you, not for you. They are on a different team. They want to win as well. You got to realise that.”