Solo show: UAE’s Pogačar writes more history in Belgium

Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) delivered a masterclass in solo riding to claim his second consecutive Tour of Flanders title on Sunday, asserting once again why he is the reigning world champion and one of the most complete riders in the modern era.

Racing over a brutal 268.9-kilometre route peppered with 16 sharp climbs and punishing cobblestone stretches, the Slovenian rider launched a fierce and decisive attack on the final ascent of the Oude Kwaremont, 18 kilometres from the finish line in Oudenaarde. It was a move none of his elite rivals could match.

Throughout the race, Pogačar repeatedly tested the legs of his competitors, with only Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) and Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck), the defending champion, able to keep pace with his surges. But when the crunch moment came, neither could respond to the Slovenian's final burst of power.

Despite a determined chase from Jasper Stuyven (Lidl-Trek), Wout van Aert (Visma-Lease a Bike), Pedersen and Van der Poel, the gap only widened. Pogačar’s relentless drive in the closing kilometres secured a comfortable solo win, cementing his dominance in the spring classics.

Pedersen edged out Van der Poel in the sprint for second place, with the Dutchman settling for third.

With this latest triumph, Pogačar now boasts eight Monument victories, reinforcing his position as one of the all-time greats. The win also marks UAE Team Emirates-XRG’s 24th victory of the season, a testament to the team’s formidable form and strategic excellence.

As the peloton turns its eyes to the Ardennes and the Grand Tours ahead, Pogačar’s rivals will have much to consider—especially after witnessing yet another historic solo display from cycling’s golden rider.