“YOU REALLY NEED SOMEONE LIKE THAT. SOMEONE WHO GOES TO THE JURY” – WOUT POELS PRAISES TADEJ POGACAR AS PATRON OF THE PELOTON FOLLOWING TRE VALLI VARESINE DRAMA….Read more.

Wout Poels, the experienced Dutch rider, has praised Tadej Pogačar for his leadership and influence in the peloton following a controversial moment at the 2024 Tre Valli Varesine. The one-day Italian race saw high tension in the final stages, culminating in a dispute over tactics and fairness, leading Pogačar to step in and play a key role as the peloton’s unofficial “patron.”

After the race, Poels acknowledged Pogačar’s intervention, stating, “You really need someone like that. Someone who goes to the jury.” His comments refer to Pogačar’s decision to approach race officials on behalf of the peloton following a heated discussion about whether certain moves in the final kilometers were within the rules. Pogačar, a two-time Tour de France champion, is not only recognized for his race-winning abilities but also for his growing stature as a leader within the peloton.

The term “patron of the peloton” is often reserved for riders with a commanding presence, respected by peers not only for their physical abilities but also for their influence on how the race unfolds and how disputes are resolved. In this case, Pogačar demonstrated his authority by mediating a situation that could have escalated further.

Poels emphasized the importance of having such figures in the peloton, especially during intense moments of competition. “In situations like these, where tempers can flare, having someone with the stature and calm of Pogačar is invaluable,” he explained. “He brings balance to the race and ensures fairness.”

The drama at Tre Valli Varesine involved a tactical disagreement between several riders over whether one team had unfairly blocked others from chasing down a breakaway. By stepping in, Pogačar helped diffuse the situation and ensured the race ended without further controversy.

Pogačar’s actions during the race have only enhanced his reputation as a rider who commands respect beyond his athletic talent. As Poels pointed out, having someone like Pogačar who can take charge in such moments is crucial for maintaining order and fairness in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of professional cycling.