Museeuw and Merckx Sound Alarm: Is Pogacar Following Sagan’s Troubling Path? | PRIMENEWSNOW

Tadej Pogacar: A Cycling Phenomenon

Tadej Pogacar has been a dominant force in cycling, conquering various terrains with ease. In the Classics, only Mathieu van der Poel seems capable of challenging him, while elsewhere, Pogacar remains unmatched. However, questions arise about how long he can maintain this level of performance. Cycling legends Johan Museeuw and Axel Merckx express concerns, not about his physical prowess, but about his mental endurance.

Johan Museeuw’s Perspective

Museeuw has been critical of Pogacar’s dominance. “It feels like the same rider wins every time,” he remarked to La Dernière Heure. He laments the diminishing role of tactics in modern cycling, noting that UAE Team Emirates often controls the race, allowing Pogacar to launch a decisive attack and secure victory.

Axel Merckx’s Admiration

In contrast, Merckx speaks with admiration. “I avoid comparing eras, but Pogacar’s dominance is reminiscent of my father’s. His ability to remain fresh after grueling races is remarkable. At the last World Championships, while others were exhausted, he seemed unfazed after hours on the bike.”

The Importance of Mental Rest

After a season filled with triumphs, including a world title and victories in major races, Pogacar entered the off-season. Yet, instead of taking a break, he was often seen at various events, including those in Gran Canaria. Museeuw warns that this could be a costly mistake.

“This time should be for mental recovery,” Museeuw, known as The Lion of Flanders, explained. “His mind needs a break, and I’m curious how he’ll manage this. A similar lifestyle contributed to Peter Sagan’s decline. Even champions need rest.”

Merckx on Mental Fatigue

Merckx concurs, highlighting the constant attention Pogacar receives. “It’s mentally exhausting. My father often spoke about how mental fatigue, more than physical, marked the end of his career. Eventually, your mind tells your body to stop.”

Van der Poel: A Formidable Rival

Despite concerns, Pogacar remains the favorite for the 2026 season, including races like Paris-Roubaix and Milano-Sanremo, where Van der Poel previously bested him. Museeuw and Merckx hope Van der Poel can continue to challenge Pogacar’s dominance.

“Van der Poel is Pogacar’s main obstacle in races like La Primavera and Paris-Roubaix,” Merckx asserts. “Without him, Pogacar might have already claimed all the Monuments. Fortunately, Van der Poel can make one-day races exciting.”

Museeuw’s Admiration for Van der Poel

Museeuw admires Van der Poel’s approach. “If I could be any current rider, it would be Van der Poel. Pogacar is the best, but Van der Poel’s class and focus on winning are inspiring.”

Merckx praises Van der Poel’s balance between racing and rest. “He knows the importance of mental recovery. Between races, he retreats to Spain, plays golf, and relaxes. He understands that mental well-being is as crucial as physical fitness.”