From Cycling Legend to Acknowledged Successor: Eddy Merckx Declares Tadej Pogačar the Superior Rider After Spectacular Worlds Performance
In the world of professional cycling, few names command as much reverence as Eddy Merckx. Known as “The Cannibal” for his relentless pursuit of victory, Merckx dominated the sport in the 1960s and 70s, winning an astonishing 11 Grand Tours, 19 Monuments, and countless other races during his illustrious career. For decades, Merckx has been regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time—a benchmark against which all other riders are measured. Yet, in a surprising moment of humility and admiration, the legendary Belgian publicly acknowledged Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian prodigy, as the rider who has surpassed him in skill, dominance, and charisma.
This profound statement came in the aftermath of the 2024 UCI Road World Championships, where Pogačar delivered a performance for the ages. The 25-year-old Slovenian showcased a rare combination of tactical intelligence, raw power, and an uncanny ability to seize the moment, leaving both fans and competitors in awe. For Merckx, this was the culmination of Pogačar’s meteoric rise over the past few years—a rise that has redefined the boundaries of modern cycling.
The Rise of Tadej Pogačar
Tadej Pogačar’s journey from a young cyclist in Slovenia to a global superstar has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born in 1998 in Komenda, a small town near Ljubljana, Pogačar displayed an early talent for cycling, joining a local club at the age of nine. Under the guidance of his coach, Andrej Hauptman, who would later become his mentor and director, Pogačar quickly distinguished himself as a prodigy in junior races.
His breakthrough on the professional scene came in 2019 when he joined UAE Team Emirates. That year, he won three stages of the Vuelta a España and finished third overall, signaling the arrival of a generational talent. However, it was in the following years that Pogačar cemented his place among the greats.
In 2020, at the tender age of 21, Pogačar stunned the cycling world by winning the Tour de France on his debut. In an unforgettable final time trial, he overturned a significant deficit to Primož Roglič, his compatriot and rival, to claim the yellow jersey. The victory made him the youngest Tour champion in over a century. He repeated the feat in 2021, dominating the race with a blend of climbing prowess and tactical brilliance.
By 2023, Pogačar had expanded his repertoire, winning prestigious one-day classics like the Tour of Flanders and Liège–Bastogne–Liège, as well as continuing his dominance in stage races. His versatility, consistency, and flair for the dramatic set him apart in an era filled with exceptional talents like Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel, and Wout van Aert.
A Performance for the Ages at the World Championships
The 2024 UCI Road World Championships, held in Zurich, Switzerland, promised to be a clash of the titans, with Pogačar, Evenepoel, and Vingegaard among the pre-race favorites. The demanding course, featuring steep climbs, technical descents, and a grueling 280-kilometer distance, was tailor-made for the sport’s best all-around riders.
From the outset, the race unfolded at a punishing pace. Early breakaways were reeled in by the peloton, with national teams like Belgium, Denmark, and Slovenia controlling the tempo. As the race entered its final third, Pogačar made his move on a brutal climb, launching a blistering attack that shattered the field. Only a select group of elite riders managed to stay with him, including Evenepoel and Vingegaard.
What followed was a masterclass in racecraft. Pogačar carefully marked his rivals, forcing them to expend energy while conserving his own. With 10 kilometers to go, he delivered the decisive blow on a short but steep incline, surging away from the group with such ferocity that no one could respond. Alone at the front, Pogačar powered through the final kilometers, crossing the finish line with his arms raised in triumph.
The victory was a testament to Pogačar’s brilliance. He not only outlasted his rivals but also dictated the race on his terms, showcasing a level of dominance rarely seen in modern cycling. It was a performance reminiscent of Merckx in his prime—a comparison that would soon be echoed by the legend himself.
Eddy Merckx’s Verdict: A Changing of the Guard
Eddy Merckx has long been a vocal admirer of Pogačar, often praising his aggressive style and versatility. However, his statement following the World Championships marked a significant shift in tone. Speaking to reporters, Merckx said, “I’ve seen many great riders come and go, but what Tadej has achieved at such a young age is incredible. It’s obvious now that he is above me. He’s the best rider we’ve ever seen.”
For a figure as proud and accomplished as Merckx, this acknowledgment carried immense weight. It was not merely an endorsement of Pogačar’s talent but also a recognition of his impact on the sport. In many ways, Pogačar has brought cycling into a new era, blending the old-school grit of Merckx with the modern athleticism and precision required to excel in today’s peloton.
The Debate: Is Pogačar Truly the Greatest?
Merckx’s declaration has reignited debates among cycling fans and pundits. While many agree that Pogačar is the best of his generation, others argue that comparing eras is inherently flawed. Merckx competed in a time when riders raced a grueling calendar, often participating in multiple Grand Tours and classics in a single season. His total dominance, including 525 career victories, remains unmatched.
However, Pogačar’s supporters point to the increased competitiveness of modern cycling. With advances in training, nutrition, and technology, today’s peloton is deeper and more evenly matched than ever before. For Pogačar to achieve such consistent success against this backdrop is a testament to his unique abilities.
A Legacy in the Making
Whether or not Pogačar ultimately surpasses Merckx in the pantheon of cycling greats, his legacy is already secure. At just 25 years old, he has redefined what is possible in the sport, inspiring a new generation of riders and captivating fans worldwide. His fearless approach to racing, coupled with his humility and charm, has made him a beloved figure both on and off the bike.
As Merckx himself said, “Records come and go, but what truly matters is how you inspire people. Tadej has done that in a way no one else has.” For now, the cycling world can only watch in anticipation as Pogačar continues to write his remarkable story—one victory at a time.
