While most of us are cozying up by the fireplace with a hot cocoa in hand, professional cyclists like Tadej Pogacar are out there battling the winter chill, pushing their limits to ensure they're in peak condition for the upcoming season. And this year, Pogacar has just delivered a jaw-dropping Christmas present to the cycling world.
In a stunning display of prowess, the Slovenian cycling sensation has obliterated the record on the legendary Coll de Rates climb in Spain. But here's where it gets even more fascinating: this isn't just any record-breaking attempt. Pogacar, currently training with his UAE Team Emirates - XRG squad in the Costa Blanca, has not only shattered the previous best but has done so in a way that leaves his competitors scratching their heads.
On a chilly Friday, Pogacar embarked on a grueling 220-kilometer training ride, accompanied by teammates like Nils Politt, Pavel Sivakov, and the team's new American recruit, Kevin Vermaerke. With an average speed of nearly 37 kilometers per hour, he completed the session in just over 6 hours. Impressive, right? But this is the part most people miss: the real magic happened on the Coll de Rates, a 6.4-kilometer climb with a 5.5% gradient, where amateur cyclists often test their mettle against the pros.
At the end of 2024, Pogacar had already claimed the top spot with a time of 12:21, edging out INEOS prodigy Peter Oxenberg by 17 seconds. But here's where it gets controversial: just recently, Pogacar returned to the same climb and sliced his own record down to an astonishing 11:57, averaging a mind-boggling 32.2 kph. This isn't just a record; it's a statement. A bold declaration to rivals like Jonas Vingegaard that dethroning Pogacar in 2026 won't be a walk in the park.
Now, some might argue that this feat was likely aided by his teammates, a strategy used before. But does that make it any less remarkable? The World Champion himself has been vocal about his ambitions for the upcoming season, sharing insights during his training camp in Benidorm, alongside teammates like Isaac del Toro and João Almeida. And this raises a thought-provoking question: Is Pogacar's dominance a result of sheer individual talent, strategic teamwork, or a perfect blend of both? What do you think? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
