“BUT WHO SAYS THAT POGACAR WILL STILL BE AT THIS LEVEL FOR 5 YEARS?” A former professional’s response to Tadej Poucaar’s questions…Read more

The meteoric rise of Tadej Pogačar has left cycling fans and experts in awe. His aggressive tactics, consistent high-level performances, and success at the Tour de France have made him a favorite for future Grand Tour wins. Yet, not everyone is convinced that his dominance will last. A former professional cyclist recently raised questions about Pogačar’s long-term sustainability, casting doubt on the idea that he’ll maintain this level over the next five years.

This skepticism centers around the physical and mental demands required to stay competitive at the top tier of professional cycling. The ex-rider argued that, historically, few cyclists have been able to sustain such an elite level without setbacks. This is partly because of the extreme toll the sport takes on the body and the psychological pressure that inevitably follows repeat victories. “Young riders often burn bright but fade out quickly,” he said, alluding to past riders who experienced early burnout due to unrelenting schedules, injuries, and the grueling demands of modern Grand Tours.

He also noted that competition continues to intensify. Cyclists like Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel are closing in, and new talent is emerging every year. This creates an environment where sustaining supremacy becomes increasingly challenging, as rivals adapt, strategize, and improve, learning from Pogačar’s own style and strengths.

The former professional also emphasized the importance of Pogačar’s support team, stating that team dynamics and strategy play crucial roles in determining long-term success. Minor changes in team composition, sponsorships, or even training approaches could influence his performance.

While fans may hope to see Pogačar continue to thrill in the years ahead, this cyclist’s comments serve as a reminder that the road to sustained greatness is far from guaranteed. Longevity in cycling demands a balance of talent, discipline, and luck, and even for someone as exceptional as Pogačar, remaining at the pinnacle of the sport for half a decade may be his toughest challenge yet.