Van Der Poel Defeats Pogacar: A Second Milan-San Remo Win

Natalie Brooks

4 min read

Post on May 26, 2025

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Van der Poel's Race Strategy and Performance

Van der Poel's victory wasn't a fluke; it was a testament to his tactical prowess and exceptional cycling ability. His race strategy was a masterclass in controlled aggression. He didn't lead the pack relentlessly; instead, he conserved energy strategically, picking his moments to attack.

• Masterful pacing in the Cipressa climb: Van der Poel avoided expending too much energy early on, allowing him to conserve strength for the crucial final ascents.
• Effective positioning before the Poggio: His precise positioning in the peloton ensured he was perfectly placed to react to any attacks on the challenging Poggio climb. This was vital for maintaining his energy expenditure to a minimum
• Explosive sprint in the final meters: Despite the grueling race, Van der Poel unleashed an explosive sprint in the final meters, showcasing his incredible power and speed, ultimately securing the win.

His climbing ability, known throughout the cycling world, was again on full display. The combination of his tactical brilliance and pure strength made him virtually unstoppable in the final sprint. Van der Poel’s performance in this Milan-San Remo truly highlighted his mastery of cycling tactics and race strategy.

Pogacar's Strong Showing and Near Miss

Tadej Pogacar, renowned for his exceptional climbing and aggressive racing style, put up a fierce challenge. His presence in the leading group throughout the race was a constant reminder of his competitive spirit. He rode aggressively, launching attacks and responding to every challenge with strength and determination.

• Aggressive riding: Pogacar was constantly involved in the race's dynamics, launching several attacks and setting a relentlessly high pace.
• Strong presence in the leading group: His ability to remain with the strongest riders throughout the race demonstrated his outstanding strength and stamina.
• Close finish, ultimately losing to Van der Poel's superior sprint: Despite his remarkable performance, Pogacar ultimately fell short, losing to Van der Poel's explosive sprint in the final meters. This narrow defeat proved he’s still a major Milan-San Remo contender.

While Pogacar's performance was nothing short of exceptional, Van der Poel's superior sprint finish ultimately decided the race.

Key Moments and Turning Points of the Race

Several key moments defined the outcome of this thrilling Milan-San Remo. The Cipressa climb saw several significant attacks, shaping the composition of the leading group. The Poggio climb, always a crucial point in the race, further thinned the pack.

• Attacks on the Cipressa: Early aggressive maneuvers saw many riders drop back, setting the stage for a smaller, elite group in the final stages.
• Breakaways and counter-attacks: A series of breakaway attempts and subsequent counter-attacks kept the race dynamic and unpredictable.
• The final kilometer sprint: The final kilometer was a breathtaking display of speed and power, with Van der Poel and Pogacar battling neck and neck until the very finish line.

While weather conditions remained relatively favorable, the relentless pace and challenging climbs certainly played a role in dictating the race's dynamic and outcome.

The Significance of Van der Poel's Second Milan-San Remo Win

Winning Milan-San Remo once is a remarkable achievement; winning it twice elevates a cyclist to legendary status. Van der Poel's second victory underscores his place among cycling's elite. This feat isn’t just a personal triumph; it solidifies his legacy as one of the greats.

• Previous Milan-San Remo victories: His previous Milan-San Remo win demonstrated his capability, but this victory firmly establishes him as a dominant force in classic cycling races.
• Place in cycling history: Repeating this victory in this classic cycling race cements his position amongst the legendary names associated with this prestigious event.
• Impact on future races: This win will undoubtedly boost his confidence and further solidify his reputation as a leading contender in upcoming major cycling events.

His second Milan-San Remo win is a testament to his incredible talent, unwavering dedication, and exceptional racecraft.

Conclusion: Celebrating Van der Poel's Dominant Milan-San Remo Victory

Mathieu van der Poel's second Milan-San Remo victory was a spectacle of tactical brilliance and raw power. While Tadej Pogacar mounted a formidable challenge, Van der Poel's superior sprint and strategic race management secured him a well-deserved win. This victory not only showcases his individual talent but also highlights the intensity and prestige of this legendary classic cycling race. Share your thoughts on Van der Poel’s second Milan-San Remo victory! Was it his superior tactics or Pogacar's near miss that made this race so memorable? Let us know in the comments below!