Van Der Poel Defeats Pogacar In Thrilling Milan-San Remo Finish

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 26, 2025

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The Race's Early Stages: A Tactical Battle

The initial kilometers of the Milan-San Remo set the stage for a captivating tactical battle. The early breakaways, though spirited, were consistently neutralized by the powerful peloton, a testament to the controlled pace set by the major teams vying for victory. Understanding the early phases of the Milan-San Remo is crucial to appreciating the later developments.

Key teams like Jumbo-Visma, UAE Team Emirates, and Alpecin-Deceuninck played crucial roles in shaping the race's early dynamics. Their strategic maneuvering and collaborative efforts were instrumental in controlling the pace and preventing any significant early advantage for breakaway riders. This early control foreshadowed the intense battle to come.

• Early attacks neutralized by the peloton.
• Steady pace maintained throughout the flatter sections.
• Importance of team collaboration in controlling the race.
• Positioning within the peloton became increasingly critical as the race progressed.

The Cipressa and Poggio Climbs: Decisive Moments

The Cipressa and Poggio climbs, notorious for their challenging gradients and ability to shatter the peloton, proved to be the decisive moments of the 2024 Milan-San Remo. These ascents tested the riders' endurance, tactical acumen, and climbing prowess.

On the Cipressa, Pogacar launched aggressive attacks, attempting to shake off his rivals and establish a crucial advantage before the final climb. However, Van der Poel demonstrated remarkable control, responding strategically and maintaining a threatening position within the leading group. The impact of these climbs on the race dynamics was significant, thinning out the field and setting the stage for the thrilling finale.

• Pogacar's aggressive tactics on the Cipressa.
• Van der Poel's controlled response and strategic positioning.
• Impact of the climbs on the race dynamics; significant reduction in the number of leading contenders.
• The importance of pacing and conserving energy for the final sprint.

The Final Sprint: A Nail-Biting Finish

The final kilometers of the Milan-San Remo unfolded in a heart-stopping sprint. As the riders approached the finish line, the tension was palpable. Van der Poel unleashed a powerful acceleration in the final meters, showcasing exceptional sprint technique and tactical awareness. He expertly timed his surge, leaving Pogacar and the other contenders struggling to match his speed.

Pogacar, despite a valiant effort, couldn't quite close the gap. The photo finish confirmed Van der Poel's victory, a moment of triumph that cemented his status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional cycling.

• Van der Poel's powerful acceleration in the final meters.
• Pogacar's valiant effort to challenge for the win.
• The photo finish and confirmation of Van der Poel's victory.
• The significance of the final sprint in determining the outcome of the Milan-San Remo.

Impact on the UCI World Rankings

Van der Poel's victory in the Milan-San Remo had a significant impact on the UCI World Rankings. His points haul propelled him further up the leaderboard, solidifying his position among the elite cyclists. Similarly, Pogacar's strong performance, despite the loss, maintained his high ranking, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. This Milan-San Remo result will significantly impact their strategies and positioning in upcoming races, creating anticipation for future competitions.

Conclusion

The 2024 Milan-San Remo provided a captivating spectacle, with Mathieu van der Poel's victory over Tadej Pogacar marking a significant moment in the cycling season. From the tactical battles in the early stages to the decisive climbs and the exhilarating final sprint, the race kept fans on the edge of their seats. Van der Poel's strategic brilliance and powerful sprint proved decisive, showcasing his exceptional skills and confirming his status as a top contender. Want to relive the excitement? Search online for highlights of this thrilling Milan-San Remo race, and stay tuned for more updates on the world of professional cycling!