The Distinctive Slovenian Figure of Nimmersatt Strives for the Spectral Arc
Victorious Tour champion Pogacar sweeps through Montreal once more. The Slovenian cyclist is gearing up for the World Championship's epic showdown with Evenepoel. For his dream, he has forfeited the Vuelta and the Olympic Games. Yet, even his fierce Belgian competitor has a strategy in place.
Pogacar revels in a well-executed plan. And so, as the world's top cyclist, he triumphantly stood on the Montreal victory podium, beaming with satisfaction from his signature "Pogi" moves: Everyone was aware of the upcoming challenge, yet no one could hinder his progress. And the one who might have thwarted his success, Pogacar intends to face off against at the World Championships.
"Montreal has boosted my confidence even more. I'm completely thrilled for the Zurich race," stated the 25-year-old shortly after his 23-kilometer solo ride. And much like Pogacar, the entire cycling community gleamed with anticipation for this unparalleled showdown on September 29 in Switzerland: Tadej Pogacar, the Tour and Giro champion, facing off against Evenepoel, who made history at the Olympics in Paris with his double gold wins.
"I'm ready for it," declared Pogacar, and he demonstrated his determination with his World Tour double victories in Canada, where he made his comeback after an eight-week racing hiatus. In Quebec on Friday, he opted not to capitalize on his attack, a rare occurrence for him. However, in Montreal on Sunday, he obliterated the competition.
Defending champion Evenepoel aims to conquer everything at the World Championships
Pogacar secured 22 race wins in 2024, surpassing the second-place finisher, Tim Merlier, by eight races and doubling the tally of Jonathan Milan - two sprinters who usually earn the most race days under less pressure. There could have been more wins, had Pogacar not restrained himself - a rare choice for him. After his incredible Tour victory, the driven Slovenian could have taken a pause, squandering an unprecedented chance: He could have become the first rider to win the Tour and the Olympic road race in a single year. But Pogacar declined the Paris invitation - primarily due to fatigue, yet also as a sign of protest against his girlfriend Urska Zigart's non-selection.
And he also skipped the Vuelta - the Giro, Tour, and Vuelta hat-trick within a single year would have been within Pogacar's reach. However, "Pogi" prioritizes: Unlike Evenepoel, he has yet to claim the World Championship road race title, and he dreams of donning the rainbow jersey.
"In 2023, I finished third on a course that didn't suit me. This time, I believe I have a better opportunity," said Pogacar, who will promptly return to Europe from Canada to perfect his skills. He will forgo the World Championship time trial on Sunday, unlike Evenepoel, the reigning champion. The Belgian is determined to capture both the road race and time trial titles at the World Championships. "Pogi" and Remco engage in a daring game of chess.
Pogacar's passion for the World Championship is evident, as he mentioned, "I'm determined to face Off against Evenepoel at the World Championships." Sports enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the upcoming clash in cycling, known as "the unparalleled showdown on September 29 in Switzerland." This highly anticipated sports event promises to be an exciting spectacle for those who follow Sports.
