Tadej Pogačar Responds to Alternate Take on Paris-Roubaix Crash: “It’s Good That You Mention It…”
Roubaix, France — Tadej Pogačar’s much-anticipated debut at Paris-Roubaix lived up to its billing and then some, as the reigning Tour de France champion took the fight straight to the specialists in one of cycling’s most brutal monuments. But the “Hell of the North” had its say — and in the end, a mistimed corner put an end to what had promised to be a legendary duel.
Pogačar, representing UAE Team Emirates-XRG, was front and center from the first cobbled sector, riding assertively in his characteristic aggressive style. With Mathieu van der Poel, Jasper Philipsen, Mads Pedersen, and Stefan Bissegger all in the mix early, it was shaping up to be a battle for the ages. Yet fate intervened.
As the race narrowed down, Philipsen fell away, and just as Van der Poel looked vulnerable, Pogačar misjudged a critical turn. It cost him vital seconds — and the win. He managed to remount and continue, ultimately salvaging second place, but the disappointment was evident.
Speaking from the Roubaix velodrome, which has undergone recent renovations, Pogačar addressed the crash and the alternate narratives that had emerged around it.
“It’s good that you mention it,” he said, when asked about speculation suggesting he had overcooked the turn in a moment of overconfidence. “Everyone will have their version of the story, but I know what I felt in that moment. I was pushing, sure, but within my limits. The cobbles have no mercy — one small error and it’s over. That’s Roubaix.”
Pogačar admitted he had underestimated just how unpredictable the race could be in its final kilometers.
“You think you have everything under control, and then one curve — one second — decides everything. That’s the beauty and cruelty of this race,” he reflected.
Despite the crash, there was no bitterness in his tone. Instead, Pogačar praised Van der Poel for his performance and called the Dutchman a “worthy winner.”
“Mathieu was strong. I think we pushed each other to the edge all day. That’s what makes these races special — it’s not just about strength, but focus, timing, and luck.”
On whether he would return to Paris-Roubaix, Pogačar didn’t hesitate.
“Absolutely. I learned a lot today. It’s not just about surviving the cobbles — it’s about mastering them. I want to come back and do that.”
A Bold Campaign Continues
Pogačar’s campaign this spring has been ambitious, pushing beyond the traditional climber’s calendar. His decision to take on Paris-Roubaix — often avoided by GC riders due to its brutal terrain and high crash risk — was met with skepticism. But his performance silenced doubters.
Even in defeat, the Slovenian proved his versatility once again, showing he’s not just a Grand Tour titan but a true all-rounder with the heart of a classic warrior.
The crash may have denied him a debut win, but Pogačar’s Paris-Roubaix ride will be remembered — not for the fall, but for his fearless commitment to the race.