Tadej Pogačar, the reigning champion of Milan-San Remo, is gearing up for another thrilling race. In a recent interview, Pogačar hinted at a potential 150-kilometre attack on the Turchino climb, but his strategy remains shrouded in mystery. With a cool and collected demeanor, he's ready to take on the challenge, knowing that success hinges on outperforming his rivals, particularly Mathieu van der Poel.
The road to victory is paved with strategic planning and a deep understanding of the course. Pogačar's familiarity with the route is an advantage, but he acknowledges that there are still secrets to uncover. The Turchino climb, a formidable feature of the race, could be the stage for a daring move, but Pogačar's tactics may also depend on the performance of his teammates.
The UAE Team Emirates-XRG has made some adjustments to their lineup due to injuries. Tim Wellens and Jhonatan Narváez are sidelined, replaced by Florian Vermeersch and the USA's Brandon McNulty. The team's strength lies in the form of Isaac del Toro, who is expected to play a crucial role as Pogačar's last line of support before the decisive attacks on the Cipressa or Poggio climbs.
Pogačar's confidence is palpable, and he's eager to start the race, hoping for a good day. The question remains: will he strike early on the Turchino or bide his time until the Poggio? The answer lies in the heart of a true champion, ready to write another chapter in the history of Milan-San Remo.