Tadej Pogacar Aims to Redefine Cycling Greatness Beyond Merckx

Tadej Pogacar has set his sights on becoming the most celebrated cyclist in history, as he continues to dominate the sport with a remarkable array of victories. According to the new book, *Tadej Pogacar: Unstoppable*, by Andy McGrath, Pogacar is already considered the most complete rider of his generation, challenging the legendary Eddy Merckx’s status in the annals of cycling.

Pogacar’s impressive trajectory includes surpassing the 100 wins milestone at the 2025 Tour de France, a feat he achieved in less than six and a half years since his first victory at the Volta ao Algarve. His success is not solely defined by numbers; it also encompasses his ability to triumph against elite competitors such as Primoz Roglic, Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel, and Mathieu van der Poel.

Unmatched Dominance in Stage Races

Pogacar’s statistics illustrate his dominance in the sport. Up until the end of the 2025 season, he had not lost a stage race in over two years, winning 13 out of 15 stage races and finishing in the top three of every race since August 2020. He has never abandoned a stage race, showcasing not only talent but also remarkable resilience. His victories in prestigious one-day races, including Liege-Bastogne-Liege and Il Lombardia, have further solidified his position, with an impressive record of winning the latter every time he has participated.

The debate over greatness in cycling often involves evaluating consistency, versatility, and the caliber of competition faced. While Pogacar may not match Merckx’s total of 525 wins, his quality of victories and the prestigious nature of the races he has won add significant weight to his legacy.

A Balancing Act of Success and Popularity

Despite his achievements, Pogacar is aware of the challenges that come with sustained success. As Merckx experienced hostility from fans during his reign, Pogacar has also faced mixed reactions, receiving boos during races. His acknowledgment of this dynamic illustrates the complexities of being a dominant figure in sports. As he humorously noted, the perception of his solo attacks may not always resonate with fans looking for more traditional racing excitement.

Pogacar’s perspective on legacy is refreshingly modest. “I honestly don’t like the comparisons with other people,” he stated to reporters in October 2024. He emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and focusing on his own path rather than dwelling on past achievements.

Merckx himself has recognized Pogacar’s prowess, stating, “It’s obvious that he is now above me.” Yet, this acknowledgment was later tempered, reflecting the ongoing nature of their competitive narrative.

As Pogacar continues to set high standards for himself, the pressures of performance remain ever-present. The demands of his team, UAE Team Emirates-XRG, and the commercial expectations tied to his success contribute to the complexity of his career. He has expressed a desire for variety in his racing calendar to maintain motivation, underscoring the balance he seeks between personal satisfaction and professional obligations.

Looking ahead, Pogacar has set his sights on future goals, including a potential bid for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. His aspirations extend beyond mere accolades; he aims to redefine cycling’s landscape and leave an indelible mark on the sport.

As he navigates the pressures and expectations, Pogacar remains optimistic, viewing each race as an opportunity for enjoyment and growth. “I want to have fun while making history,” he said, capturing his essence as a competitor who thrives on both achievement and pleasure in the sport.

With the cycling world watching closely, Tadej Pogacar’s journey is far from over. Whether he ultimately surpasses Merckx’s legendary status will depend on his ability to adapt and evolve in the face of the sport’s relentless demands. For now, he continues to challenge himself, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in professional cycling.