Rob Hatch, an expert analyst for TNT Sports, shares a compelling perspective on the Slovenian cycling sensation, Tadej Pogacar, who competes for UAE Team Emirates-XRG. He suggests that Pogacar is “on his way to being the greatest of all time,” particularly as cycling enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming Tour de France in 2025. However, Hatch provides a speculative view on Pogacar’s potential vulnerabilities that might offer a strategic edge to his competitors, providing them with a glimmer of hope.
Pogacar’s recent performances during the Dauphiné Libéré were a testament to his remarkable resilience, especially in the mountainous stages where rivals are expected to excel. The two-time Tour de France winner, Jonas Vingegaard, was anticipated to capitalize on these challenging climbs, yet Pogacar managed to counter every attack effortlessly. This dynamic not only shifted the competitive landscape but also delivered a psychological advantage to Pogacar at a critical juncture before the premier cycling event of the year.
That said, it was not entirely a smooth journey for Pogacar. During the Stage 4 Time Trial, a potential weakness in his performance became apparent when he lost 49 seconds to the formidable Remco Evenepoel, the reigning world champion, and 28 seconds to Vingegaard. Such time penalties in crucial stages may pose concerns for Pogacar and could be seen as a chink in his otherwise robust armor, thereby providing his adversaries with a flicker of confidence leading into the Tour.
Pogacar did not allow this short setback to dictate his performance for long. He displayed his competitive spirit and resilience by clinching victories in both Stage 6 and Stage 7, effectively silencing critics and reinforcing his dominance overall. However, as the anticipation builds for the Tour de France, his competitors are undoubtedly taking note of these results, particularly the vulnerabilities laid bare during the time trial.
In analyzing the events at the Dauphiné during his segment on *The Gruppetto with Rob Hatch*, he remarked, “Where is everybody? Well, given that the main appointment [the Tour de France] doesn’t yet start for almost three weeks, and that the meaty part of it is a month away, any conclusion is going to contain an element of guesswork.”
Hatch further emphasized that Pogacar’s last defeat in a stage race occurred nearly two years ago. He noted that even when Pogacar does not emerge as the general classification winner, he consistently triumphs in individual stages. With 99 victories to his name, it is widely anticipated that he will soon cross the milestone of 100 wins during the Tour.
Though Pogacar’s performance this week was commendable, Hatch pointed out that a weakness in the time trials and a potential bad day might have been exposed amidst his supremacy in other aspects. “But history teaches us that the race is won towards the end of July, and not this early,” he added, highlighting the strategic nature of long-term competition. While Pogacar’s record is impressive, Hatch cautions that he is not invincible.
As Pogacar continues to train in altitudes—specifically heading to Isola 2000 for enhanced preparation—there is an evident connection of mutual respect between him and Vingegaard away from competition. Nonetheless, intriguing dynamics unfolded during the final stages of the Dauphiné. With his general classification secured, Pogacar seemingly conceded to Vingegaard, allowing him to overtake without much resistance. This led to speculation about whether this was an act of confidence or a tactical error.
Hatch shared some thoughts on these mental games, suggesting that Pogacar’s decisions—such as easing off the pace near the finish—might have raised eyebrows. Despite Pogacar claiming he was simply conserving energy, the implications of such strategic maneuvers add layers of complexity as the cycling community anticipates what is set to be an exhilarating rendition of cycling’s greatest showpiece.
In summary, while Tadej Pogacar continues to establish himself as a leading force in professional cycling, the landscape remains unpredictable, with rivals keenly watching for any signs of weakness as they gear up for fierce competition during the forthcoming Tour de France. The narratives surrounding his strengths and perceived vulnerabilities will undoubtedly make for a thrilling cycling season ahead, poised to unfold live on TNT Sports and discovery+.