The start of superstar Tadej Pogacar at Paris-Roubaix continues to trigger mixed reactions in the scene. Ex-professional Thijs Zonneveld is part of the camp that urgently advises the Slovenian from the cobblestone classic-because in his eyes he has no chance of winning anyway.
Although it will be his first start at Paris-Roubaix, Tadej Pogacar, as one of the very big favorites, goes into the race. An overwhelming majority of the cycling world is convinced. The former Dutch professional Thijs Zonneveld sees it differently. He believes that the Slovenian is without a chance at the cobblestone classic.
On the one hand, it is “very cool” that the superstar starts at all. “But it’s crazy that Pogacar does that,” said the former driver in the “In Het Wiel” podcast. The reason for this assessment: The 26-year-old will “not win” in the eyes of Zonneveld.
“He has to drive van der Poel, Van Aert, Pedersen and Ganna in one of the cobblestone sections because he would probably be beaten in a sprint. I simply cannot imagine that he wins Paris-Roubaix. The podium is possible, but nobody will let him go,” the ex-professional forecast.
Ex-professional warns: Pogacar risks his entire tour preparation
In addition to the sporting question marks, there is an increased risk of falling. Especially in bad weather, the drivers on the long cobblestone passages are often just a passenger. Accidents with serious consequences are often the order of the day.
“There is the possibility that he will fall and his entire preparation for the tour will be thrown over the pile,” said Zonneveld, who has understanding of the team’s concerns in view of this risk. “I understand the management very well. His chance is so small, but it is difficult to overthrow what the season can end.”
Pogacar, however, simply wants to “win all big races. And apparently he also believes that he can win Paris-Roubaix. But he should remain realistic: even one [Jasper] Stuyven, who is not even one of the top favorites, has a better chance than Pogacar, “Zonneveld, with a view to the best cyclist in the world, fell a devastating conclusion.