Rivals Spot World Championship Openings for Evenepoel Against Pogacar: ‘His Attack Lacked Tour de France Power’

Rivals See Opportunity Against Pogacar at World Championships: ‘His Attack Lacked Usual Tour Power’

Tadej Pogacar showed some signs of vulnerability during the GP Québec, where Arnaud De Lie and Lotto-Dstny managed to follow his final attack. However, in the GP Montréal two days later, Pogacar’s dominance was clear, solidifying his strong form heading into the World Championships in Zürich. The question remains: who can challenge him after his impressive performance in Montréal?

While the time gaps in Canada weren’t as dramatic as those seen in the Giro d’Italia or Tour de France, Pogacar still managed to pull away, finishing 24 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Pello Bilbao. For the Bahrain Victorious rider, it was an encouraging result. “This is a great feeling,” Bilbao said, noting the solid support from his teammates, which allowed him to conserve energy. Although he couldn’t match Pogacar’s pace, Bilbao focused on maintaining his own rhythm, gaining confidence for the World Championships.

Julian Alaphilippe secured third place by winning the sprint from a large group, after also responding well to Pogacar’s attack in Québec. Reflecting on the challenging course and high temperatures, Alaphilippe emphasized the importance of energy conservation. Although he couldn’t close the gap to Pogacar, his strong sprint finish gave him confidence heading into Zürich.

For Belgium, riders like Maxim Van Gils and Tiesj Benoot signaled strong form ahead of the World Championships. Van Gils finished fourth, and Benoot took seventh, with both expressing satisfaction with their performances. Van Gils said he was pleased despite missing the podium, while Benoot remarked that he was hindered in the final sprint but was still content with the team’s effort.

Attention in Belgium is focused on Remco Evenepoel, who is seen as the primary challenger to Pogacar. Van Gils noted that while Pogacar is in form, his attack in Montréal didn’t seem as powerful as those from the Tour de France. He still considers Pogacar the favorite for Zürich but hopes Evenepoel will be ready to compete. Benoot also acknowledged Pogacar’s confidence and strength, stating that if anyone can match him when he’s at his best, it’s Evenepoel. The Belgian team is optimistic as the World Championships approach.