The rivalry between Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar has become one of the most captivating storylines in modern cycling. Both hailing from Slovenia, Roglič and Pogačar have not only dominated the sport but have also pushed each other to new heights, creating a dynamic that has enthralled fans and elevated Slovenian cycling to the global stage.
The rivalry began to take shape in 2019 when Pogačar burst onto the scene as a young prodigy, while Roglič was already an established star. Roglič, a former ski jumper who transitioned to cycling, quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the sport’s top contenders. By 2019, he had already claimed victories in major races and was seen as a serious contender for the Grand Tours.
Pogačar, on the other hand, was seen as the new kid on the block, full of potential but untested in the highest echelons of the sport. However, his performances in the 2019 Vuelta a España, where he won three stages and finished third overall, signaled the arrival of a new force in cycling. It was here that the first glimpses of a rivalry with Roglič began to appear, as both riders competed for the top spots.
The rivalry truly ignited during the 2020 Tour de France, a race that will go down in history for its dramatic conclusion. Roglič, who had taken control of the race early on, appeared to be on his way to his first Tour de France victory, holding a comfortable lead going into the penultimate stage, a time trial up La Planche des Belles Filles.
However, in a stunning turn of events, Pogačar delivered one of the most remarkable performances in Tour history, erasing Roglič’s lead and taking the yellow jersey in the process. Pogačar’s victory by just 59 seconds not only denied Roglič but also marked him as the youngest winner of the Tour de France since 1904. This dramatic finish solidified their rivalry and left the cycling world in awe.
Following the 2020 Tour, the rivalry between Roglič and Pogačar continued to build. In 2021, Pogačar once again proved his dominance by winning the Tour de France, this time with a more commanding performance. Roglič, however, bounced back later that year, winning his third consecutive Vuelta a España, showing that he was far from being overshadowed by his younger compatriot.
Their rivalry is not just limited to the Grand Tours. In one-day races and stage races alike, the two have frequently found themselves in direct competition, often bringing out the best in each other. For instance, their battles in the 2021 Liège-Bastogne-Liège and other classics have added new chapters to their growing legacy
Despite their fierce competition, there is a strong mutual respect between Roglič and Pogačar. Both have spoken highly of each other in interviews, acknowledging the other’s talent and the motivation that their rivalry provides. This respect is also reflected in their cooperation on the Slovenian national team, where they have worked together to achieve success in events like the World Championships and the Olympics.
However, this respect does not diminish their desire to outperform one another. Their rivalry has been characterized by close battles, with neither willing to give an inch, whether it’s on the slopes of the Alps, the cobbles of the Classics, or in the general classification of a Grand Tour.
The Roglič-Pogačar rivalry has had a profound impact on Slovenian cycling. The success of these two riders has not only inspired a new generation of cyclists in Slovenia but has also put the country firmly on the map as a cycling powerhouse. Their achievements have led to increased interest and investment in the sport in Slovenia, and young riders now look up to Roglič and Pogačar as role models.
As both riders continue to compete at the highest level, the future of the Roglič-Pogačar rivalry promises to be just as exciting as the past. With each new race, fans eagerly anticipate another chapter in their ongoing battle. Whether it’s in the Tour de France, the Vuelta a España, or the Classics, the cycling world will be watching as these two extraordinary athletes continue to push each other to new heights.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Primož Roglič and Tadej Pogačar is one of the most compelling in cycling today. It’s a story of two extraordinary talents who have brought out the best in each other while raising the profile of Slovenian cycling to unprecedented levels. As their careers progress, this rivalry will likely be remembered as one of the defining features of this era in the sport.
