Will Tadej Pogacar dominate again in 2025? “This is an extreme case”

Tadej Pogacar has once again showcased his extraordinary talent, storming to victory at Il Lombardia for the fourth consecutive year. The Slovenian superstar crossed the finish line three minutes ahead of second-placed Remco Evenepoel, further cementing his incredible 2024 season. This year, Pogacar has not only claimed the coveted triple crown but also added several prestigious classics to his already legendary palmarès.

Former professional rider Thomas Dekker, reflecting on Pogacar’s dominance, shared his insights with In De Leiderstrui, acknowledging the gap between Pogacar and the rest of the peloton.

“He is simply five percent better. You can only make it less difficult as a course builder. Then others have more surplus, more people can handle the course. You probably still have the same winner, because then he just goes even harder,” Dekker said, highlighting Pogacar’s superiority on difficult stages.

However, Dekker also recognized that such dominance, while impressive, can sometimes lead to less exciting races. “But yes, difficult races with a rider who is that good, is an ingredient for a boring race,” he added.

Despite Pogacar’s supremacy, Dekker believes that such periods of dominance in cycling are temporary. “That supremacy will pass by itself. Whenever you are in a period where a rider stands out, it passes. Although this is an extreme case. Now the question is how long it will last like this,” Dekker observed, pointing out that while Pogacar's level is extraordinary, it won’t last forever.

“I don’t look at it bitterly,” Dekker concluded. “Because then I wouldn't make a podcast about it either.”

As the cycling world continues to witness Pogacar’s reign, the question remains: just how long can this level of supremacy last? For now, Tadej Pogacar is at the peak of his powers, and the rest of the peloton can only hope to catch up.