PARIS, March 27, 2025: Tadej Pogacar, a three-time Tour de France champion, will compete in the notorious Paris-Roubaix for the first time, as confirmed by his team UAE on Wednesday.
Although Paris-Roubaix is known for its difficult cobbled roads, which aren't ideal for Pogacar's build, a win would solidify his place among cycling's greats. He will be the first reigning Tour de France champion to race this event since Greg Lemond in 1991, who finished 55th. Other cycling legends like Bernard Hinault and Eddy Merckx also raced Paris-Roubaix after winning the Tour de France, with Merckx finishing second in 1975.
Pogacar already boasts seven Monument wins, including the 2023 Tour of Flanders, and is aiming for Paris-Roubaix as part of a strategic shift in his racing calendar. Initially, he was scheduled to race the E3 Saxo Classic and Gent-Wevelgem, but after discussions, he decided to focus on Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders instead.
Although the race is known for its danger due to the rough cobbled roads, UAE's team manager Mauro Gianetti raised concerns about Pogacar's safety. A bad fall could potentially affect his Tour de France chances. However, race director Thierry Gouvenou expressed excitement over Pogacar's participation, calling it a "huge moment for cycling" and a challenge suited to his talent.
While competitors like Mathieu van der Poel, Wout Van Aert, and Filippo Ganna present tough opposition, Pogacar’s decision to take on Paris-Roubaix is seen as a bold move, with Tour de France director Christian Prudhomme eager to see how it unfolds.