"The two of them are simply the best" - In the classics, there are now only the 'big two' for José de Cauwer

The spring classics are races that in the past were very marked by the unexpected and surprises in some of the very top events of the year. This year in 2025, the same two riders - Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel - were the two main favourites for all three of the first monuments and in all three they were the strongest of the day.

"Until last week, we were talking about three top riders. And it didn't matter who that third one would be. It could be Pedersen, but also van Aert. That's what we were hoping. But after today, we have to say that the two of them are simply the best," José de Cauwer argues on Sporza.

In Sanremo Pogacar and van der Poel were the strongest on the Cipressa and Poggio di Sanremo, but their battle saw Filippo Ganna also get in the mix. In Flanders the two were the strongest, but van der Poel cracked on the final Oude Kwaremont. In Roubaix the two were again the strongest, even though the flat cobblestones favoured other riders over the World Champion.

In Flanders and Roubaix as well, the same three riders finished on the podium - with Mads Pedersen being second and third respectively. In none of the monuments so far there have been surprises in the fights for victory, and the difference between the top riders and the average pro grows further and further. Pogacar and van der Poel, at this time, are already the 'big two' of the spring classics. Pogacar will still race the Ardennes, where he should be the undisputed favourite to take all three wins.

De Cauwer also commented on Wout van Aert who led Belgium home in both monnuments with a fourth place. "A truly unique period in cycling history. In the Tour [of Flanders], he was dropped at critical moments. But towards the end, he performs well. But the super speed is no longer there when things go very fast".

"I don't know why. People then say that Van Aert should go back to the drawing board. I won't say I have the solution, but I would start racing the old-fashioned way with van Aert. And start racing!"