Chris Horner, a renowned cycling expert, offers a critical perspective on Tadej Pogacar's future in cycling, particularly focusing on his quest to conquer the elusive Monuments of Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix. Horner emphasizes the importance of tactical evolution for Pogacar to achieve these prestigious victories.
Despite Pogacar's remarkable 2025 season, marked by a fourth Tour de France title, defense of the Rainbow Jersey in Rwanda, and an additional Il Lombardia, Horner highlights the two races he has yet to win: Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix. Horner argues that while Pogacar's dominance is undeniable, his success in these races hinges on a strategic transformation.
In the Beyond the Coverage podcast, Horner acknowledges Pogacar's potential as the next Eddy Merckx. However, he points out that Pogacar has only won four Tours de France, while Merckx boasts five. Horner emphasizes the significance of winning the 'holy grail' of cycling, which includes the Monuments. He suggests that Pogacar's 2026 season could be epic if he wins Milan-San Remo and Paris-Roubaix, achieving the coveted five Monuments.
Horner delves into the tactical maturity of Pogacar and the UAE Team Emirates, noting a significant improvement since 2022. He recalls Pogacar's mistakes during the 2022 Tour de France, Stage 11, attributing them to poor decision-making and team coordination. Since then, the team has refined its tactics, learning to manage attacks and support Pogacar more effectively.
The key to success, according to Horner, lies in the 'abort button.' He criticizes Pogacar's team for sticking to a pre-race plan, even when race conditions change, leading to missed opportunities. Horner advises Pogacar to make bold decisions, especially on the Cipressa in Milan-San Remo, where he should be prepared to adapt and prioritize his chances of victory.
Horner proposes an 'Advanced Strategy' for San Remo, suggesting a controlled pace-setting approach to fragment the peloton and create opportunities for Pogacar's teammates. He also advises patience and strategic reliance on rival teams in Paris-Roubaix, avoiding early aggression and focusing on a well-timed attack.
In summary, Horner's analysis highlights the importance of tactical adaptability and strategic decision-making for Pogacar's success in the Monuments. He challenges Pogacar to embrace a more flexible approach, learning when to hit the 'abort button' and when to unleash his full potential, ultimately aiming to become the next cycling legend.
