In what is sure to send a ripple of excitement through the cycling world, Tadej Pogacar, the reigning Giro d’Italia and Tour de France champion, has hinted at a potential debut at the iconic Paris-Roubaix this year. The Slovenian sensation, who made history by securing the coveted Triple Crown in 2024 with a victory at the World Championships, dropped a tantalizing teaser on his social media that has the cycling world abuzz. The video, which shows him riding through the famous cobbled sections of Paris-Roubaix, particularly the treacherous Arenberg Forest, is sparking speculation about his upcoming race schedule for the season ahead.
As one of the sport’s most dominant figures in recent years, Pogacar’s potential appearance at the Hell of the North would mark a significant moment in his career. Known for his impressive versatility, having conquered the Grand Tours and one-day classics alike, the addition of the legendary Paris-Roubaix to his palmarès would solidify his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats. However, while fans are eager for a glimpse of the 24-year-old in the famous northern French cobbled race, his teasing of the event is also a reminder of the immense challenge that awaits even the most talented cyclists on the Roubaix pavé.
The Triple Crown Champion’s Big Tease
Tadej Pogacar, who has earned a reputation for his prowess across all terrains, posted the video from what appears to be a training ride on the very cobbles that make Paris-Roubaix infamous. The footage shows Pogacar navigating the rough and unpredictable surface of the Arenberg Forest, one of the most grueling and iconic sectors of the race. The short clip, which was accompanied by a simple caption, has set social media ablaze, with fans and pundits alike speculating whether the Slovenian star is preparing for his first tilt at the Paris-Roubaix.
Paris-Roubaix, often referred to as “The Hell of the North” due to its brutal cobbled sections and unforgiving conditions, has long been a race that many top riders, especially those who excel in stage races like the Tour de France, shy away from. Its punishing terrain requires not only power and endurance but also the ability to handle the technical aspects of bike handling, making it a true test of a rider’s complete skill set.
For Pogacar, who is best known for his attacking style and dominance in the mountains, stepping into the arena of Paris-Roubaix would be a bold and exciting move. His teasing post suggests that he might already be testing himself on the very roads that have shaped legends of the sport. The thought of seeing a rider with Pogacar’s aggressive and fearless riding style tackling the cobbles of northern France is enough to stir the imaginations of cycling fans worldwide.
Paris-Roubaix: A New Frontier for Pogacar?
Though Pogacar’s track record in Grand Tours speaks for itself, he has made a name for himself in one-day races as well. In fact, his performances in classics like the Tour of Flanders and Liège-Bastogne-Liège have proven that he has the versatility to perform on both the short and long distances, in all kinds of terrain. His inclusion in Paris-Roubaix would be an exciting addition to his already impressive resume, but it also presents a new and daunting challenge.
The Arenberg Forest is one of the most notorious sectors in Paris-Roubaix, consisting of a series of rough, uneven cobblestones that can break even the most seasoned professionals. It’s not just the physical toll of the cobbles that makes it so punishing; the chaotic nature of the peloton, coupled with the unpredictable weather and crashes, makes it a race that tests the mental resilience of every rider. The cobblestones have witnessed countless memorable moments, and to add Pogacar’s name to that list would be something special.
The video of him riding on the Arenberg cobbles suggests he is not just preparing for a race; he is getting a feel for the very course that could become a defining challenge in his career. While many riders have entered Paris-Roubaix with the intent to make a statement, few have been able to match the demands of the race, especially on their first attempt. The idea of Pogacar making a strong debut at Paris-Roubaix only adds to the growing anticipation for his first-ever participation.
Pogacar’s 2025 Season: What’s Next?
While the Paris-Roubaix teaser has generated the most excitement, Pogacar also revealed his planned first race of the 2025 season, confirming his early goals for the year. According to reports, Pogacar will kick off his campaign in February at the UAE Tour, a race where he has enjoyed immense success in previous years. The UAE Tour has become a staple of his early-season schedule, and with his sights firmly set on repeating his past victories, the 2025 edition promises to be a thrilling start to his season.
The UAE Tour is a particularly important event for Pogacar, as it allows him to fine-tune his form ahead of the bigger challenges later in the year. With the Tour de France always looming large in his calendar, the UAE Tour gives him the opportunity to test his legs, sharpen his focus, and lay down a marker for his rivals in what is expected to be another intense season. Having won the UAE Tour in 2021 and 2022, Pogacar will be aiming for his third victory at the event, but his broader ambition lies in his defense of his Tour de France title later in the year.
Pogacar’s plans for 2025, including his potential debut at Paris-Roubaix, will undoubtedly be influenced by his ongoing drive to challenge for more Grand Tour victories. However, if his recent success in one-day races is any indication, it would not be a surprise if he becomes a fixture in these spring classics, including Paris-Roubaix, where the unpredictability of the cobbles might just suit his fearless and dynamic riding style.
A Bold Move: Will Pogacar Take the Paris-Roubaix Challenge?
For Pogacar, entering Paris-Roubaix could represent a significant shift in his racing focus. While the majority of his career achievements have come on the grand stages of multi-week tours, the lure of the classics is something many riders, especially those with his versatility, cannot resist. His natural aggression and ability to respond to tough situations make him an ideal candidate to thrive in races like Roubaix.
However, there are risks involved in making a debut at a race as unforgiving as Paris-Roubaix. The cobbles demand a particular kind of focus, and the uncertainty surrounding weather conditions, mechanical failures, and crashes could spoil any rider’s chances of a debut victory. But Pogacar has shown time and again that he thrives in difficult situations, and this kind of unpredictability might play right into his hands.
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Pogacar as he steps up to what would be a new challenge for him, while simultaneously reaffirming his dominance in stage races. If the Paris-Roubaix debut happens as hinted, it will be one of the most highly anticipated moments of the year in cycling. The race, which has seen countless greats etch their names in history, might soon have a new contender—one who is already carving out his legacy across the world of cycling.
For now, cycling fans can only wait with bated breath to see if Pogacar’s teasing video becomes a prelude to something even bigger: a new chapter in his already legendary career, and possibly a place in Paris-Roubaix history.