Tadej Pogacar, the Slovenian cycling sensation, is poised to tackle the 116th edition of Milan-San Remo with renewed vigor and strategy. Despite his illustrious career, which includes multiple Tour de France victories and triumphs in other Monument classics, Milan-San Remo remains an elusive conquest for Pogacar. This year’s race, scheduled for March 22, 2025, presents an opportunity for him to overcome this lingering challenge.
Milan-San Remo: The Unpredictable Classic
Milan-San Remo, affectionately known as “La Classicissima di Primavera,” is the longest one-day race on the professional cycling calendar, stretching approximately 289 kilometers from Milan to San Remo. Its length and relatively moderate terrain make it a race of attrition, often culminating in a frenetic finale where various racing strategies can unfold. The race’s unpredictability is both its allure and its challenge, as it doesn’t cater exclusively to climbers, sprinters, or puncheurs, making it a coveted title for a diverse array of riders.
Pogacar’s Pursuit of the Elusive Title
For Pogacar, Milan-San Remo has been a race of near misses and strategic conundrums. In previous editions, his attacks on the iconic Poggio climb—situated just before the descent into San Remo—have been marked by their vigor but have yet to yield victory. The Poggio, while decisive, hasn’t provided the steep gradients that typically allow Pogacar to distance his rivals effectively. Consequently, competitors have managed to stay on his wheel, neutralizing his offensives and outmaneuvering him in the descent and sprint to the finish.
Reflecting on his experiences, Pogacar has acknowledged the unique challenge that Milan-San Remo presents, stating that it is “probably the race that will torment me for the longest time.” This candid admission underscores his deep desire to add this Monument to his palmarès and the strategic recalibrations he’s willing to undertake to achieve that goal.
A Strategic Shift: Eyeing the Cipressa
In a bid to outflank his rivals and the race’s traditional dynamics, Pogacar and his UAE Team Emirates squad are contemplating an audacious move: launching a decisive attack on the Cipressa climb, which precedes the Poggio and is situated about 22 kilometers from the finish. Historically, the Cipressa has been less favored for race-defining moves due to the subsequent flat section that allows the peloton to regroup before the Poggio. The last successful solo attack on the Cipressa that led to victory dates back to 1996, highlighting the gamble inherent in this strategy.
However, recent indicators suggest that Pogacar is seriously considering this approach. Over the winter, he was observed conducting high-intensity training efforts on the Cipressa, seemingly rehearsing for a potential race-day assault. Additionally, teammate Tim Wellens hinted at their ambitious intentions, mentioning, perhaps in jest, their goal to ascend the Cipressa in under nine minutes—a feat that would eclipse the current record of 9 minutes and 16 seconds set in 1996. Such remarks, while lighthearted, reflect the team’s innovative mindset and willingness to disrupt conventional race patterns.
The 2025 Contenders: A Competitive Field
Pogacar’s quest for victory won’t be unchallenged. The 2025 Milan-San Remo has attracted a stellar lineup of competitors, each bringing unique strengths and tactical approaches:
- Mathieu van der Poel: The Dutch powerhouse, known for his explosive attacks and versatility, has previously showcased his ability to animate races with unexpected moves. His prowess on varied terrains makes him a formidable opponent.
- Wout van Aert: The Belgian all-rounder combines sprinting speed with climbing resilience. His tactical acumen and finishing kick position him as a perennial favorite in races like Milan-San Remo.
- Filippo Ganna: Italy’s time-trial specialist has been expanding his repertoire to include classics. His raw power and recent performances indicate he’s a contender capable of influencing the race’s outcome.
- Julian Alaphilippe: The French rider, with his punchy climbing style and descending skills, has previously come close to winning this race. His aggressive racing approach ensures he’ll be a key protagonist.
Race Dynamics: Potential Scenarios
The prospect of Pogacar attacking on the Cipressa introduces intriguing tactical possibilities:
- Successful Solo Break: If Pogacar manages to distance himself on the Cipressa and maintains his lead through the ensuing flat section and the Poggio, he could solo to victory—a scenario reminiscent of past heroic exploits in cycling lore.
- Formation of an Elite Group: An attack on the Cipressa could fragment the peloton, leading to a select group of favorites collaborating to stay ahead. This reduced group would then contest the final kilometers, with tactics and alliances playing pivotal roles.
- Peloton Regrouping: Should the peloton successfully chase down attacks on the Cipressa, traditional strategies would resume, with teams setting up their leaders for the Poggio and the subsequent sprint finish.
The Allure of Milan-San Remo
The enduring fascination with Milan-San Remo lies in its unpredictability. The race’s length, combined with its strategic climbs and descents, ensures that no single approach guarantees success. For Pogacar, this year’s edition represents not just a chance to secure a missing Monument but also an opportunity to showcase tactical ingenuity and resilience.
As fans and analysts anticipate the unfolding drama, one thing remains certain: Milan-San Remo will once again deliver a spectacle of endurance, strategy, and sheer will—a true testament to the spirit of cycling.
