Eddy Merckx’s Advice to Pogačar: The Poggio is Key to Milan-San Remo Victory
Tadej Pogačar is once again poised to challenge for victory at Milan-San Remo, a race that has repeatedly eluded him. Having finished in the top five four times, including two third-place finishes, the Slovenian superstar is seeking the elusive win. Now, cycling legend Eddy Merckx, a seven-time winner of “La Classicissima,” has offered his tactical insight: attack on the Poggio, not the Cipressa.
Why the Poggio, Not the Cipressa?
Merckx believes the final 3.7km climb of the Poggio presents the best opportunity for Pogačar to break free and secure victory. While Pogačar has launched strong attacks on the Cipressa in the past, Merckx argues that the earlier climb is no longer decisive enough. He explained to La Gazzetta dello Sport that even a successful breakaway on the Cipressa leaves a rider vulnerable to being caught before the finish line, especially with the current dynamics of professional racing.
A headwind on the Cipressa would further diminish the chances of a successful solo move. Merckx emphasizes the importance of patience, even for a rider as aggressive as Pogačar. He notes that Pogačar has previously been chased down by rivals or unable to establish a sufficient gap to win solo, often resulting in a sprint finish – a scenario that doesn’t favor the Slovenian.
Van der Poel Remains the Biggest Threat
Merckx acknowledges that Mathieu van der Poel remains the rider most likely to deny Pogačar the win. Van der Poel has won Milan-San Remo twice, in 2023 and 2025, and recently demonstrated impressive form at Tirreno-Adriatico, winning two stages. Merckx warns that a strong Van der Poel, arriving at the Via Roma finish alongside Pogačar after a grueling 298km, would likely prevail.
The Belgian legend stresses the need for Pogačar to distance himself from Van der Poel, stating that if they reach the finish together, the Dutchman would be the favorite due to his strength and endurance.
UAE Team Emirates’ Challenges
Pogačar’s team, UAE Team Emirates, faces some challenges heading into the race. Key riders Jhonatan Narvaez, Jay Vine, and Tim Wellens are currently unavailable due to injury or recovery. Despite these absences, UAE Team Emirates still boasts a strong lineup with riders like Del Toro, Christen, Vermeersch, and McNulty to support their leader.
The Importance of Timing and Strategy
Merckx’s advice centers on timing. He believes Pogačar must time his attack on the Poggio perfectly to isolate Van der Poel and avoid a sprint finish. The Poggio, as the last significant climb before the finish, offers the most effective launchpad for a winning attack.
FAQ
- What is the key piece of advice Eddy Merckx gave to Tadej Pogačar? Attack on the Poggio, not the Cipressa.
- Why does Merckx believe the Poggio is better than the Cipressa? The Poggio is closer to the finish line, making a successful breakaway less likely to be neutralized.
- Who is considered Pogačar’s biggest rival at Milan-San Remo? Mathieu van der Poel.
- What challenges is UAE Team Emirates facing? Several key riders are unavailable due to injury or recovery.
Pro Tip: Milan-San Remo is a race of attrition. Conserving energy throughout the long distance is crucial, even for a rider as powerful as Tadej Pogačar.
Stay tuned to RMC Sport for live coverage and commentary of Milan-San Remo. Will Pogačar finally conquer “La Primavera” this year?
