Tadej Pogačar recently revealed an intriguing detail about his attack on the Col du Galibier during the 2024 Tour de France, shedding light on his tactical mindset in the high-mountain stages. Known for his aggressive and dynamic racing style, Pogačar has consistently displayed a willingness to push the limits in the most challenging climbs, and his performance on the Galibier was no exception. However, the Slovenian star admitted that his original plan was to launch his move even earlier than he eventually did.
“I wanted to go earlier on the climb,” Pogačar said in a post-race interview, acknowledging that his instinct was to try to break away sooner, possibly catching his rivals off guard. However, the steep gradients of the Galibier, combined with the fatigue from earlier stages in the race, led him to hold off on his attack. His restraint, however, was not out of a lack of ambition but rather a strategic decision to time his move at the right moment for maximum effect.
When Pogačar finally did make his move, he attacked with precision, displaying his renowned power on the steep sections of the iconic mountain pass. His timing caught many by surprise, and while he didn’t gain a massive time advantage, his effort served to put psychological pressure on his main competitors, including Jonas Vingegaard and others in the general classification.
This candid admission from Pogačar reveals the level of thought and self-awareness he applies to his racing. The Col du Galibier is a brutal, long climb, and any premature effort could have been costly. Ultimately, Pogačar’s pacing and tactical decision-making proved to be key to his continued success in the 2024 Tour, underscoring his ability to read the race and adapt to the ever-changing demands of one of cycling’s most grueling challenges.
In cycling, timing is everything, and Pogačar’s insight into his attack strategy highlights the fine line between aggression and caution in the pursuit of victory.
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