Tadej Pogacar eventually defeated Mathieu van der Poel during their final ascent of Oude Kwaremont, but ex-pro Jan Bakelants still perceived a resilient Dutchman. Regarding Paris-Roubaix, which is expected to benefit Van der Poel, he remains uncertain about Pogacar’s prospects.
“This Tour of Flanders had some predictable aspects, yet it remained remarkably thrilling.” How powerful does Tadej Pogacar need to be to leave Mathieu van der Poel behind by such a margin on the Oude Kwaremont? What he accomplishes is remarkable. “It seems like they are gaming on PlayStation in the UAE,” the former professional observes with admiration for the reigning world champion in his column for Het Laatste Nieuws.
He arrives at a race, and no matter what he does, it’s always correct. It appears simple with such a spearhead on the team, yet they accomplish it. I haven’t observed engines similar to those of Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel in the last 25 years. “They perform actions that are beyond the capabilities of regular humans.”
Pogacar’s achievements now feature eight Monuments, yet it appears this won’t be the end. “He discovers two additional Monuments this season that are ideally suited for him, with Liège and Lombardia.” Paris-Roubaix is not, yet who can tell, we may have a totally different conversation next Sunday. The reason I don’t rank him as the clear top favorite is that his race isn’t an ideal fit on paper, placing him on par with Van der Poel, Van Aert, and Pedersen.
Mathieu van der Poel might have secured a historic fourth win at the Tour of Flanders on Sunday. If only he didn’t have a certain Tadej Pogacar obstructing him. Nevertheless, Bakelants observed a powerful Van der Poel in action. “He might not currently hold the record of four wins at the Tour of Flanders, but it’s hard to describe him as poor.” Ultimately, there was just one competitor superior to him.
“He consistently accompanied Pogacar on the brief, steep inclines.” Occasionally, I even felt that he was toying with it. That maneuver on the second ascent of the Oude Kwaremont was quintessential Van der Poel. With several strong pedal strokes, he brought four men up there. Remarkable. Hearing that he needed antibiotics for three days because of a cold after the E3 Saxo Classic is truly impressive that he managed to do this.
