'The pressure is low, like the tyres will be' – Liberated from Milan-San Remo and after latest Flanders exhibition, is the most ruthless Tadej Pogačar yet heading for Paris-Roubaix?

Tadej Pogačar has begun the 2026 season with a remarkable display of dominance, recently securing victories at Milan-San Remo and the Tour of Flanders. His triumph at San Remo was particularly significant, marking his first win in the race after a dramatic comeback and a sprint finish against Tom Pidcock. This victory lifted a considerable burden from Pogačar’s shoulders, as San Remo had long been a challenging target for him. With four of cycling’s five Monuments now won, the Slovenian is poised to attempt a historic sweep that could see him conquer all five in a single season, a feat never achieved even by legends like Eddy Merckx. The spotlight now turns to Paris-Roubaix, which will likely be the deciding factor in Pogačar’s quest for Monument supremacy. Having finished second on his debut at Roubaix last year, he returns with renewed confidence and a growing reputation for mastering the sport’s most demanding one-day races. His recent performances, including three consecutive wins at Flanders following a fourth-place debut, demonstrate his ability to learn and adapt quickly to the unique challenges of cobbled classics. Meanwhile, defending champion Mathieu van der Poel, who excels on flatter terrain, remains a formidable rival but acknowledges Pogačar’s rapid improvement. Despite the mounting expectations, Pogačar remains measured in his approach to Paris-Roubaix. He emphasises the importance of enjoying the race and maintaining low pressure, even as he acknowledges the high motivation driving him forward. His comments reflect a blend of humility and determination, suggesting that while he is aware of the historic stakes, he is focused on delivering his best performance without being overwhelmed by the hype. This mindset could prove crucial in navigating the brutal physical and tactical demands of the Hell of the North. Pogačar’s recent successes and calm confidence have significant implications for the 2026 cycling season. If he can claim victory at Paris-Roubaix, he will be on the verge of rewriting the record books by winning all five Monuments in one year, a milestone that would cement his status among the sport’s all-time greats. Beyond the classics, his ambitions also extend to the Vuelta a España, the Olympic road race, and adding to his four Tour de France titles, indicating a relentless pursuit of cycling’s most prestigious accolades. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how this ruthless and evolving competitor handles the challenges ahead.