"Tadej is that kind of person" - Michael Matthews explores his brotherhood with Pogacar

Michael Matthews recently spoke with Wieler Revue about what it’s like to train alongside Tadej Pogacar, the triple crown winner. The two share a strong friendship, and Matthews sees reflections of his younger self in the Slovenian star.

"A few years ago I saw myself in him," the Australian explains. "He had the same attitude as I had when I was in my early twenties. He helped me mentally go back to that time, because the rivals I was competing against then are now retired."

Now 34 years old, Matthews has enjoyed a decorated career, winning stages in all three Grand Tours and claiming the green jersey at the Tour de France in 2017. Training with Pogacar, he says, helps him stay motivated and engaged with the sport.

"Tadej helps me to stay focused and to keep enjoying the sport. When you are surrounded by people who love the sport and are passionate about what they do, it gives you positive energy. Tadej is that kind of person."

Despite Pogacar’s dominance, Matthews is one of the few riders who can match him during training. "I'm not the only rider, but I'm one of the few who can ride at the same speed with Tadej all day long, and talk at the same time. For me, it doesn't feel like we're training with him."

"That's what makes it so easy. It's effortless. We're two friends who challenge each other and have fun. Yes, we also do sprints regularly. Those are the only times I can beat him, so I want to do as many as possible, haha. I'm a bit faster, but he wants to work on his speed that way. It helps him, and because I win often, I get more confidence. It's a win-win situation, haha."

Despite their friendship and training partnership, Matthews emphasises that they maintain a strictly professional approach during races. "We have never helped each other in the race, or anything like that. I don't expect anything from him, and he doesn't expect anything from me. That is our professional attitude, because we just have to do our job."