"The key point will be Oude Kwaremont the first time" - Tadej Pogacar at the start of Tour of Flanders

Tadej Pogacar only made his debut at the Tour of Flanders in 2022, but quickly proved a point that didn't seem to be possible in this type of race. Without ever having raced at a high level in the cobbles of Flanders, the Slovenian showed climbing power was the key of the race and rode to fourth on the day. He returns this year with the dream of taking the win.

Interviewed by Sporza, Pogacar said this morning: "It's fantastic, this is a unique experience here in Bruges. It is always better to finish alone. In a group the chances are smaller for me, so winning solo is ideal for me.” The UAE Team Emirates leader was in a good mood, and as declared by Tim Wellens yesterday, in a calm mood towards the second monument of the season.

Pogacar rode to fourth at Milano-Sanremo, but aims for more here. The victory will realistically be his only ambition, but it could be possible. Last year he attacked the race several times on the climbs and managed to drop everyone but Mathieu van der Poel. At the E3 Saxo Classic, which was very similar to what the riders will face today, the situation will be similar albeit with Wout van Aert very likely in the mix too.

“The key point will be Oude Kwaremont the first time, the race already starts there. I have to sit at the front, have 100% focus and from then race to the finish. Conditions are good. The temperature is good. It's chilly, but there's no rain. That is perfect for racing," he concluded.