I Will Never Forget This One” – Tadej Pogačar Elevates Strade Bianche to Monument Status
In the hallowed history of cycling, certain races are revered as “Monuments,” epitomizing the sport’s blend of grueling challenge, storied tradition, and unparalleled prestige. These races—Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and Il Lombardia—have long stood as the ultimate tests of a rider’s skill, endurance, and willpower. Yet, on March 5, 2022, in the undulating, white-gravel roads of Tuscany, Tadej Pogačar delivered a performance so extraordinary that it forever altered the perception of the Strade Bianche, elevating it in the eyes of many to Monument status.
Before delving into Pogačar’s historic ride, it is essential to understand the context of the Strade Bianche’s rise. Compared to the century-old Monuments, Strade Bianche is a relative newcomer, with its inaugural edition held in 2007. However, what it lacks in history, it makes up for in character. The race’s signature feature is its extensive use of “strade bianche”—the white gravel roads that crisscross the Tuscan countryside, harking back to the era of heroic cycling.
From the outset, Strade Bianche attracted an elite field and quickly became a favorite among fans and riders alike. Its challenging mix of rough gravel sections, steep climbs, and breathtaking scenery created a spectacle that blended the brutality of Paris-Roubaix with the beauty of Tuscany, making it a race that was difficult to ignore.
By 2022, Tadej Pogačar had already established himself as one of the most prodigiously talented cyclists of his generation. The Slovenian had won the Tour de France twice (in 2020 and 2021) and displayed a versatility that made him a contender in almost every race he entered. Pogačar’s ability to excel in time trials, mountain stages, and one-day classics positioned him as a rider capable of transcending the boundaries of traditional cycling roles.
His decision to race in the 2022 Strade Bianche came as no surprise to those who had been following his career. Known for his love of attacking and seizing opportunities, Pogačar was drawn to the race’s unpredictability and the unique challenge of its gravel roads.
The 2022 Strade Bianche featured a star-studded lineup, including former winners and some of the most powerful riders in the peloton. The course, stretching 184 kilometers from Siena through the Tuscan countryside, included 63 kilometers of gravel divided into 11 sectors. The most iconic of these sectors, Le Tolfe, would play a crucial role in Pogačar’s victory.
As the race progressed, the peloton was gradually whittled down by the relentless pace and the challenging terrain. By the time the riders reached the eighth gravel sector, the decisive moves were beginning to form. It was here, with nearly 50 kilometers still to race, that Pogačar launched a bold and audacious solo attack—a move that would define the race.
Pogačar’s attack was both fearless and masterful. He quickly opened up a gap on the chasing group, which included some of the sport’s most seasoned riders. His ability to maintain a blistering pace on both the gravel and tarmac, coupled with his technical prowess in navigating the treacherous descents, showcased his all-around capabilities.
As the kilometers ticked by, it became clear that Pogačar was on a ride for the ages. Despite the efforts of the chasers, the Slovenian continued to extend his lead, undeterred by the fatigue or the challenging conditions. By the time he reached the final climb up to the Piazza del Campo in Siena, Pogačar’s victory was all but assured.
With the iconic finish line in sight, Pogačar powered up the steep gradient of the Via Santa Caterina, the crowds lining the ancient streets of Siena roaring in approval. He crossed the line 37 seconds ahead of his nearest rival, celebrating a victory that would be etched in the annals of cycling history.
In his post-race interview, an emotional Pogačar described the victory as one of the most special of his career. “I will never forget this one,” he declared, acknowledging the significance of his achievement. The win was not just a testament to his physical abilities but also to his tactical acumen and mental fortitude.
Pogačar’s victory at Strade Bianche was more than just another win for his already illustrious palmarès. It was a performance that elevated the status of the race itself. His solo attack, executed with nearly 50 kilometers to go, was reminiscent of the legendary rides that have defined the Monuments over the decades. In the eyes of many cycling aficionados, Pogačar’s triumph cemented Strade Bianche’s place as a Monument in all but name.
The debate over whether Strade Bianche should be formally recognized as the sixth Monument of cycling is one that has gained traction in the wake of Pogačar’s victory. While the race lacks the long history of the other Monuments, its unique character, challenging course, and growing prestige make a compelling case for its inclusion.
Pogačar himself has remained somewhat ambivalent on the subject, expressing his admiration for the race while also acknowledging the special place that the five traditional Monuments hold in cycling lore. Yet, his ride in 2022 undoubtedly added weight to the argument that Strade Bianche deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as Milan-San Remo or Paris-Roubaix.
As the dust settles on Pogačar’s remarkable victory, its impact on the world of cycling continues to reverberate. For the race itself, the 2022 edition has become a defining moment in its history, a race that will be remembered for years to come. For Pogačar, it was another chapter in what is already an extraordinary career—a win that demonstrated his ability to dominate across all forms of racing.
The memory of that day in Tuscany, where Pogačar conquered the white gravel roads with a ride of sheer brilliance, will undoubtedly endure. Whether or not Strade Bianche is ever officially recognized as a Monument, one thing is certain: Tadej Pogačar’s victory has elevated it to a status that few other races can claim.
In the years to come, as future champions battle for glory on the white roads of Tuscany, they will do so in the shadow of Pogačar’s 2022 triumph—a ride that turned Strade Bianche from a race to a legend.
