'I was riding 650 watts and still couldn't follow' – Mathieu van der Poel cracks to finish second again behind 'unbeatable' Tadej Pogačar in Tour of Flanders
Cyclingnews • • sports
Key Points:
- Mathieu van der Poel admitted that despite producing 650 watts, he was unable to keep up with Tadej Pogačar during the decisive move on the Oude Kwaremont at the Tour of Flanders, highlighting Pogačar's superior strength.
- Pogačar dominated the race, becoming the eighth rider to win a record third Tour of Flanders title, while Van der Poel finished second but acknowledged he gave one of his best performances.
- Van der Poel's team co-owner Philip Roodhooft praised his effort, stating it was hard to call it a defeat given Pogačar's unbeatable form, and expressed confidence ahead of the upcoming Paris-Roubaix.
- The battle between Van der Poel and Pogačar is shaping the narrative of major cobbled classics, with Van der Poel aiming to reclaim advantage at Paris-Roubaix where he previously defeated Pogačar.
- Despite Van der Poel's past successes, Pogačar's rising dominance may prevent him from surpassing the record for most Tour of Flanders wins, potentially leaving that honor to the Slovenian star.
