In the world of professional cycling, being compared to legends such as Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, and Jacques Anquetil is a rare honor that signifies exceptional talent and achievement.
Recently, Emmanuel Hubert, the general manager of Team Arkéa-Samsic, made headlines by asserting that Tadej Pogačar, the young Slovenian prodigy, belongs in this elite group.
Hubert’s statement that Pogačar is “one of the greats like Merckx, Hinault, Indurain, and Anquetil” has sparked discussions and admiration within the cycling community. This article delves into Pogačar’s remarkable career, his achievements, and the qualities that may indeed place him among cycling’s immortals.
Tadej Pogačar’s ascent to the pinnacle of professional cycling has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born on September 21, 1998, in Komenda, Slovenia, Pogačar displayed early promise in junior competitions, quickly rising through the ranks with his exceptional talent. He turned professional with UAE Team Emirates in 2019, and it didn’t take long for him to make a significant impact.
Pogačar’s breakthrough came at the 2019 Vuelta a España, where he won three stages and finished third overall, an unprecedented achievement for a 20-year-old. However, it was his performance in the 2020 Tour de France that solidified his status as a prodigy. At just 21 years old, Pogačar won the general classification, the mountains classification, and the young rider classification, becoming the first rider since Eddy Merckx to achieve such a feat.
Pogačar’s achievements have continued to pile up in subsequent seasons. In 2021, he successfully defended his Tour de France title, once again winning the general classification, the mountains classification, and the young rider classification. His aggressive riding style, tactical acumen, and remarkable climbing abilities have made him a formidable competitor in stage races and one-day classics alike.
Beyond the Tour de France, Pogačar has also claimed victories in prestigious races such as Liège-Bastogne-Liège and the Tirreno-Adriatico. His versatility and consistency across different terrains and race formats have solidified his reputation as one of the most complete cyclists of his generation.
Emmanuel Hubert’s comparison of Pogačar to cycling legends like Merckx, Hinault, Indurain, and Anquetil is significant for several reasons. These riders are not just famous names; they are icons of the sport, each with a legacy of dominance and remarkable achievements. Hubert’s statement suggests that Pogačar is not only a current star but also a rider whose career will be remembered alongside the greatest in history.
“Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, and Jacques Anquetil are synonymous with excellence and unparalleled success in cycling,” Hubert said. “When I see Tadej Pogačar race, I see the same qualities that made these legends great. His ability to dominate in the mountains, his tactical brilliance, and his relentless pursuit of victory are reminiscent of the greatest riders our sport has ever seen.”
What sets Pogačar apart from his contemporaries and aligns him with the legends of cycling is his unique combination of physical and mental attributes. His climbing prowess is evident in his ability to conquer some of the most challenging ascents in the sport, often leaving his rivals behind with powerful attacks. Additionally, his time-trialing skills, as showcased in the decisive stage of the 2020 Tour de France, demonstrate his versatility and all-around capabilities.
Mentally, Pogačar possesses a calm and composed demeanor that belies his young age. His tactical intelligence and race awareness allow him to make split-second decisions that often prove decisive. Whether it’s launching a well-timed attack or conserving energy for crucial moments, Pogačar’s racing instincts are finely tuned.
As Pogačar continues to rack up victories and accolades, his presence is reshaping the landscape of professional cycling. His rivalry with other young talents, such as Primož Roglič and Egan Bernal, promises to deliver thrilling contests for years to come. These battles not only captivate fans but also push the sport forward, raising the level of competition and excitement.
Emmanuel Hubert’s comparison serves as both recognition and motivation for Pogačar. Being mentioned in the same breath as Merckx, Hinault, Indurain, and Anquetil is a testament to his achievements thus far, but it also sets a high bar for the future. If Pogačar continues on his current trajectory, he has the potential to carve out a legacy that rivals those of the legends he is compared to.
Despite the accolades and comparisons, Pogačar remains grounded and focused on his goals. In interviews, he often emphasizes the importance of his team and the support he receives from his coaches, teammates, and family. His humility and work ethic are qualities that endear him to fans and fellow cyclists alike.
“I am honored to be compared to such great riders,” Pogačar said. “But I know that I still have a lot to achieve in my career. I am focused on improving every day and winning more races for my team and my country. Cycling is a team sport, and I am grateful for the incredible support I have received.”
Pogačar’s victory is expected to have a ripple effect on Belgian cycling. His success can inspire more young Belgians to take up the sport, knowing that they too can achieve greatness. Cycling clubs and academies across Belgium are likely to see a surge in interest, as aspiring cyclists look to follow in Evenepoel’s footsteps.
The win also highlights the importance of support systems in sports. Evenepoel’s journey was supported by a dedicated team of coaches, trainers, medical staff, and family members. Their collective efforts were crucial in helping him reach his full potential.
“Behind every great athlete is a team that supports them,” Merckx emphasized. “Remco’s victory is a testament to the hard work of everyone who has helped him along the way. It’s a reminder that success in sport is a team effort.”
Evenepoel’s gold medal marks the beginning of a new era for Belgian sport. His achievement can motivate athletes across various disciplines to aim higher and strive for excellence. The visibility and recognition that come with such a prestigious victory can also attract more resources and support for sports development in Belgium.
“Remco has set a new standard for what can be achieved,” Merckx said. “His victory is a beacon of hope for Belgian athletes in all sports. It shows that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible.”
Tadej Pogačar’s meteoric rise and exceptional performances have earned him comparisons to some of the greatest cyclists in history. Emmanuel Hubert’s endorsement underscores the young Slovenian’s impact on the sport and his potential to leave a lasting legacy. As Pogačar continues to break records and push the boundaries of what is possible in cycling, fans and pundits alike eagerly anticipate the next chapters in his remarkable career. Whether he ultimately stands alongside Merckx, Hinault, Indurain, and Anquetil as one of the all-time greats remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Tadej Pogačar is already a legend in the making.
