Van Der Poel Outsprints Pogacar To Claim Second Milan-San Remo Win

Rajiv Sharma

4 min read

Post on May 26, 2025

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The Race's Key Moments: A Thrilling Ride to San Remo

The Milan-San Remo route is renowned for its challenging 291km length and its inclusion of iconic climbs that test even the most seasoned cyclists. This year's race was no exception. Key moments included the ascents of the Cipressa and the Poggio, two climbs that often determine the outcome of the race.

• The Cipressa Challenge: The Cipressa, a consistently steep climb, saw several attempts at breakaways, but the peloton remained tightly packed, conserving energy for the decisive Poggio climb. Strong riders tried to shake things up early, but the main contenders stayed within striking distance. This tactical positioning was key to the outcome.

• The Poggio's Power Play: The Poggio, the final major climb, proved to be the crucible where the race truly took shape. Several attacks were launched, testing the endurance and strategic thinking of the leading contenders. The pace increased significantly, whittling down the leading group to a select few. This is where the true race for victory began. We also saw a key moment where a minor crash took out a couple of contenders, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this classic cycling race.

• A Tactical Masterclass: The race tactics leading up to the final sprint were fascinating. We saw some riders try to tire out the sprinters early, whilst others played a waiting game. It was a game of chess on wheels.

Van der Poel's Dominant Sprint Finish: A Masterclass in Speed and Power

The final kilometer was a breathtaking display of speed and power. Van der Poel, perfectly positioned within the leading group, unleashed a devastating sprint in the final 200 meters. His acceleration was simply phenomenal, leaving Pogacar and the rest of the field in his wake.

• Positioning is Key: Van der Poel's meticulous positioning before the sprint was crucial. He avoided being boxed in and conserved energy for that final push, showcasing years of experience in this type of cycling race.

• A Superior Sprint: A comparison of the sprint finishes reveals Van der Poel's superior speed and power. While Pogacar made a valiant effort, he couldn't match Van der Poel's explosive burst of speed. This showcased a difference in sprint training and technique.

• Raw Power and Speed: Van der Poel's victory wasn't just about speed; it was about raw power. His ability to maintain an incredible pace over such a short distance highlights his exceptional physical capabilities. This strength is what makes him a formidable competitor in the world of professional cycling.

Pogacar's Strong Performance: A Close Second Place

Despite finishing second, Tadej Pogacar delivered a truly commendable performance. His strategic positioning throughout the race, especially on the climbs, showed his tactical intelligence and enduring power.

• A Contender Until the End: Pogacar's ability to stay with the leading group until the very end highlighted his outstanding strength and endurance. His performance cemented his place as a force to be reckoned with in the future.

• A Close Call: While he was edged out in the sprint, Pogacar's performance suggests a very close race. He was certainly a strong contender and this finish serves as motivation for future Grand Tour races.

• Future Prospects: This Milan-San Remo race sets up an exciting rivalry for the upcoming races and further highlights Pogacar’s talent and ambition.

Impact of the Milan-San Remo Win on the Cycling Season

Van der Poel's Milan-San Remo win carries significant implications for the rest of the cycling season.

• World Tour Standings: This victory significantly boosts van der Poel's position in the World Tour standings, putting him firmly in contention for top honors.

• Upcoming Races: This win will undoubtedly affect his approach to upcoming races, giving him a psychological boost and potentially influencing the strategies of his rivals.

• Rivalry and Prestige: The win further solidifies the rivalry between van der Poel and Pogacar and increases the prestige surrounding these two top cyclists. The Milan-San Remo victory is a major feather in Van der Poel's cap.

Conclusion:

Mathieu van der Poel's stunning victory at Milan-San Remo 2024 solidified his position as a top contender in classic cycling. His powerful sprint finish, outpacing even the formidable Tadej Pogacar, showcased his exceptional talent and strategic prowess. The race itself was a thrilling spectacle, highlighting the intense competition and strategic maneuvering inherent in this prestigious event.

Call to Action: Want to learn more about the thrilling world of professional cycling and the remarkable victories of riders like Van der Poel and Pogacar? Stay tuned for our upcoming articles covering the latest news and analysis from the world of Milan-San Remo and other classic cycling races!