The Monument races are shaping up to be a titanic clash between two cycling titans, Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel, but a former pro believes one rider's dominance might make it nearly impossible for the other to conquer certain legendary races.
This season's prestigious "Monuments" – cycling's five oldest and most revered one-day races – are predicted to mirror the drama of 2025, with Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel widely tipped as the primary contenders to claim victory in all of them. However, both riders are still missing two of these coveted titles from their career achievements. Adding a fascinating layer to this narrative, former professional cyclist Jens Voigt has voiced a strong opinion: he believes that as long as these two giants are competing, it will be incredibly difficult for them to beat each other in specific Monuments.
But here's where it gets controversial... Voigt, speaking on the Domestique Hotseat podcast, stated, "The way I see it, as long as Mathieu van der Poel is active, riding and is in normal shape, it’s next to impossible for Tadej to win Paris-Roubaix or to win Milano-Sanremo." He elaborated, "Because these races just suit Mathieu van der Poel much better." This assertion is particularly compelling when we look at the unique demands of these races.
For Paris-Roubaix, often dubbed the "Hell of the North," van der Poel's exceptional raw power and his masterful technical skills on the treacherous cobblestone sectors have propelled him to three consecutive victories. This remarkable feat underscores his dominance. However, it's crucial to remember that luck plays an undeniable role in this brutal race, and even the best are not immune to misfortune.
When it comes to Milano-Sanremo, van der Poel has also demonstrated his prowess, triumphing on multiple occasions. His ability to surge on the short, punchy climbs and then unleash a powerful sprint, combined with his impressive endurance, makes him a formidable force. Last year, the race saw him pushed to his limits on the Cipressa climb, a pivotal point in the race that is often key for Pogacar's ambitions. Yet, van der Poel, like all other riders, faced immense pressure on this section.
And this is the part most people miss... While van der Poel is yet to conquer Liège-Bastogne-Liège and Il Lombardia, Voigt argues that when Pogacar is at his peak, the hilly profiles and strong competition in these particular Monuments present too great a challenge for the Dutchman.
Voigt passionately expressed his admiration for the rivalry: “As long as Tadej Pogacar is racing and wanting to win, it’s next to impossible for Mathieu van der Poel to win the two missing Monuments for him, Liège-Bastogne-Liège and the Giro di Lombardia, because they’re too hilly. I love the clash between those two in the pursuit of greatness to win all five Monuments, year after year. They give it their best and provide a great show.”
Voigt on Remco Evenepoel: A Champion's Volatility
Jens Voigt also turned his attention to Remco Evenepoel, a rider who has seen significant evolution with the Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe team, bolstered by a major investment this winter. Voigt described Evenepoel as a rider of immense talent but also one prone to unpredictable performances. "Remco, what a champion he is, but Remco also is hot or cold. You know, he wins the Vuelta or he blows up in a leader’s jersey and loses 50 minutes in a day," he remarked about the Olympic Champion. Voigt believes that Evenepoel's susceptibility to emotional decisions necessitates a strong support system within his team.
"Remco is growing up, he’s becoming more mature, but we have seen him a few times moving and waving his arms in TV when he is unhappy at World Championships and some races. But I mean, Remco, you’re a world class athlete, people don’t ride for you to make you win. They ride against you, not for you. They are on a different team. They want to win as well. You got to realise that.”
What do you think? Is Jens Voigt right about the near-impossibility of Pogacar winning Roubaix and Sanremo while van der Poel is racing? And is Evenepoel's emotional volatility a genuine concern, or is he simply showing the passion of a true competitor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
