Tadej Pogačar has become one of the most electrifying names in professional cycling, with Tour de France victories and a style that blends youthful aggression with elite strategy. With his meteoric rise, it’s only natural that legends of the sport, including Lance Armstrong, would weigh in.
So what does Lance Armstrong really think about Tadej Pogačar? Let’s explore Armstrong’s opinions, their context, and what it means for the future of cycling.
Who Is Tadej Pogačar?
Before diving into Armstrong’s thoughts, it’s important to understand who Tadej Pogačar is and why he’s so admired.
Born in Slovenia in 1998, Pogačar has already claimed multiple Tour de France titles and is considered one of the most talented riders of his generation. Known for his attacking style, climbing prowess, and time-trial strength, he has become the face of modern cycling—and a symbol of its clean, competitive future.
What Has Lance Armstrong Said About Tadej Pogačar?
Lance Armstrong, the controversial yet iconic former Tour de France champion, has publicly praised Tadej Pogačar on several occasions through his podcast The Move and media interviews. Armstrong has labeled Pogačar as:
“One of the most complete riders I’ve ever seen.”
Armstrong often emphasizes that Pogačar’s versatility sets him apart—he can climb, time trial, and even sprint when needed. He’s also highlighted Pogačar’s mental toughness and race intelligence, especially in multi-stage events like the Tour de France.
Armstrong on Pogačar’s Dominance: Is It Legitimate?
Given Armstrong’s own history with doping, his praise for any dominant rider is often met with scrutiny. However, Armstrong has been clear about one thing:
“There’s no evidence, and I have no reason to doubt his performances. He’s clean until proven otherwise.”
Armstrong has repeatedly stated that today’s cycling environment is far more transparent and regulated than during his era, and he believes Pogačar is part of a new generation that is changing the narrative.
How Does Armstrong Compare Pogačar to Other Legends?
In discussions on his podcast and in interviews, Armstrong has drawn comparisons between Pogačar and cycling greats such as:
- Eddy Merckx, for his dominance across different terrains
- Alberto Contador, for his climbing ability
- Chris Froome, for his stage race precision
Armstrong has also hinted that if Pogačar continues on his trajectory, he could become the greatest of all time, surpassing even Merckx in terms of versatility and impact on the sport.
Does Armstrong Think Pogačar Can Win More Tours?
Yes, Armstrong firmly believes that Pogačar has what it takes to win multiple more Tour de France titles, citing:
- His young age
- His adaptability
- His competitive mindset
- His ability to bounce back from setbacks (like his duel with Jonas Vingegaard)
Armstrong has remarked:
“He’s just getting started. If he stays healthy, there’s no limit to what he can achieve.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What did Lance Armstrong say about Tadej Pogačar?
Lance Armstrong has called Pogačar “one of the most complete riders ever” and has praised his climbing, time-trial ability, and race intelligence.
Does Armstrong think Pogačar is clean?
Yes. Armstrong has stated he believes Pogačar is clean and has not seen any evidence to suggest otherwise.
How does Armstrong compare Pogačar to other cycling legends?
He has compared him to Eddy Merckx, Alberto Contador, and Chris Froome, suggesting that Pogačar could become the greatest cyclist of all time.
Has Pogačar responded to Armstrong’s comments?
As of now, Tadej Pogačar has not directly responded to Lance Armstrong’s comments publicly.
Where did Armstrong share his views on Pogačar?
Most of Armstrong’s insights come from his podcast The Move, where he analyzes major cycling events and discusses current riders.
Conclusion:
Lance Armstrong, despite his controversial past, remains an influential voice in cycling. His admiration for Tadej Pogačar underscores just how significant the young Slovenian’s impact has been on the sport. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the world of cycling, keeping an eye on Pogačar’s journey is like watching history unfold.
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