Slovenian Ex-Pro Raves About Tadej Pogačar but Warns: “His Downfall Will Come at Some Point”
Slovenian cycling sensation Tadej Pogačar has continued to dominate the sport, securing major victories and cementing his place as one of the greatest cyclists of his generation. However, a former Slovenian professional cyclist has issued a warning, stating that while Pogačar’s achievements are extraordinary, no athlete remains at the top forever.
Speaking in a recent interview, the ex-pro, who has closely followed Pogačar’s rise to stardom, expressed admiration for his talents but also cautioned that a decline in form is inevitable. “Tadej is an exceptional cyclist, and what he’s doing right now is truly remarkable. He has the ability to win races in a way that very few can. But in cycling, as in any sport, no one can stay at their peak forever. His downfall will come at some point because all cyclists start to lose form sooner or later.”
The Reality of Cycling Longevity
Pogačar, who has already claimed multiple Tour de France titles and dominated classic races, is known for his aggressive racing style, fearless attacks, and ability to shine across different terrains. While he has shown no signs of slowing down, history suggests that even the best riders eventually face challenges.
Legends such as Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain all experienced periods of invincibility before eventually encountering setbacks due to age, injuries, or stronger competition. The former Slovenian pro noted that while Pogačar is currently in his prime, maintaining such dominance will become increasingly difficult as younger, hungrier riders emerge.
“Right now, Pogačar seems unbeatable. But we have to remember that cycling is physically and mentally demanding. The constant strain on the body, combined with the pressure of always being expected to win, takes its toll. Eventually, a new wave of talent will challenge him, and maintaining his current level will require even more effort.”
Warnings from Other Cycling Figures
This warning about the dangers of prolonged dominance echoes sentiments shared by other figures in the cycling world. American cycling legend Lance Armstrong recently cautioned that Pogačar’s desire for victories could be a double-edged sword. Armstrong suggested that winning too many stages might create resentment among competitors and fans, potentially making Pogačar a target.
Similarly, Dutch cyclist Wout Poels expressed concerns about how the public perceives Pogačar’s dominance. “I hope people don’t turn against him because he’s winning too much,” Poels said, suggesting that the cycling world has a history of fans turning on riders who appear too dominant for too long.
How Long Can Pogačar Stay on Top?
Despite these warnings, Pogačar has repeatedly proven his resilience and ability to adapt. His versatility allows him to excel in Grand Tours, one-day classics, and even time trials, making him one of the most well-rounded cyclists of his era. However, as he continues to push his limits, the question remains: How long can he sustain this level of excellence?
For now, Pogačar remains at the pinnacle of the sport, delighting fans with his aggressive and entertaining racing style. But as the former Slovenian pro warns, cycling is unpredictable, and at some point, every great champion must face the reality of time catching up with them.
