2024 Strade Bianche | Highlights

Race Report

Tadej Pogačar delivered a breathtaking performance at Strade Bianche, securing a commanding victory with an impressive 81-kilometer solo attack. The Slovenian sensation, representing UAE Team Emirates, marked his debut in the 2024 season in spectacular fashion, following his triumph in Il Lombardia at the end of the previous season.

Pogačar’s decisive move came on the challenging sector of Monte Sante Marie, where his teammate Tim Wellens upped the pace of the leading group, setting the stage for Pogačar’s solo attack. With 81 kilometers remaining to the finish line, Pogačar launched his assault, quickly opening up a significant gap over his rivals.

The advantage over the chasing pack soared, reaching a maximum of 3 minutes and 40 seconds, with Tom Skuijns of Lidl-Trek finishing in second place and Maxim Van Gils of Lotto-Dstny securing third.

In a display of cycling mastery, Pogačar navigated the challenging terrain and treacherous conditions with finesse, ultimately crossing the finish line in Piazza del Campo in Siena to claim his 64th career victory and the 11th success for UAE Team Emirates in 2024.

Reflecting on his remarkable performance, Pogačar expressed his strategy and mindset during the race. “I attacked at 81 kilometers to the finish line because the race had been really fast from the start and there had been an early heavy selection,” he explained. “Wellens set a very demanding pace, and then I decided to attack. When I knew I had a good gap, I only focused my energies on going to the finish.”

Acknowledging the challenges of the first race of the season, Pogačar credited his meticulous preparation and dedication. “The first race of the season is always difficult, but I did perfect preparation during the winter, and I worked hard to be ready for this debut, and it worked,” he stated. “I really love this race, it has a huge charm, it is now very popular, and it is one of the most difficult one-day races in the world.”

Pogačar’s triumph at Strade Bianche reaffirms his status as one of cycling’s most formidable talents, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead as he prepares to tackle his next challenge at Milano-Sanremo.

Results

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