Fabian Cancellara praises Pogacar ahead of Strade: 'He has taken cycling to another level'

For many fans, Strade Bianche and Tadej Pogačar have become inseparable in recent years. The Slovenian star already won the gravel classic in 2022, 2024 and 2025. That record ties him with Fabian Cancellara, the former Swiss star who triumphed in 2008, 2012 and 2016.

On Saturday that shared record could disappear.

“If Tadej wins, I have absolutely no problem with that,” Cancellara said to Sporza “It is an honour to share that record with him.”

Pogačar was honoured yesterday when organisers named a gravel sector after him on the Colle Pinzuto climb. Cancellara received the same recognition years ago when the demanding Monte Sante Marie sector was named after him.

“Something like that is an honour, very special,” Cancellara explained. “This is still a relatively young race, especially in the period when I won here.”

According to the 44-year-old owner of Tudor Pro Cycling, the growth of Strade Bianche has made those tributes even more meaningful. “When you look at how much interest the race has gained over the years, a gesture like that feels even more special. This is part of the history of our sport. It is fantastic.”

Despite the possibility that Pogačar could soon stand alone with four victories, Cancellara speaks about the Slovenian with clear admiration. “Pogačar has helped cycling grow and he has taken the sport to another level, especially when you look at it globally,” he said.

“I mean, he is a Slovenian rider and he is nominated for many prestigious sports awards. If he were American or British, his impact would probably be even bigger.”

Cancellara also has little doubt about Pogačar's current status in the peloton. “It is clear that he is the best rider right now,” he said. “But I do not compare him to riders like Eddy Merckx. This is a different era.”

While Pogačar is the overwhelming favourite this Saturday, Cancellara regrets that other major stars are absent from the start list, including Mathieu van der Poel. “Has Strade Bianche become too difficult? Yes and no,” he said.

“The race has become harder, but I am convinced Van der Poel could have a chance here. Maybe it just did not fit into his planning this year. Nobody should judge that.”