Pogacar 'starstruck' beside Cancellara as Strade Bianche names Colle Pinzuto after him

Colle Pinzuto has grown in importance since it was added twice to the modern course. Riders hit it first with just under 60 kilometres remaining, then return for a second pass as the penultimate gravel sector, around 19 kilometres from the finish in Siena. It is short, sharp and perfectly placed for a decisive move. And from this year, it will also be known as the settore Tadej Pogačar.

“I love this race and now I am also part of the history. That makes me honoured and humble,” Pogačar said in quotes collected by Sporza at the roadside during a brief ceremony.

He shared the moment with another rider who helped shape Strade Bianche’s mythology. Fabian Cancellara, also a three time winner, attended the unveiling. Cancellara already lends his name to Monte Sante Marie, widely considered one of the hardest sectors on the course. For Pogacar, standing next to him felt like a reminder of how quickly the sport’s timelines can overlap.

“I feel a bit starstruck next to Fabian. As a kid I looked up to him. It was amazing to see him race on these roads. As a teenager I would not have dared to dream of this,” the 27-year-old Slovenian said.

After the brief ceremony, the UAE Team Emirates-XRG rider stayed on to answer questions. When the discussion turned to the stone itself, he joked about wanting it to remain in place.

“I hope this stone stays here,” he said. “Hopefully no one steals it or nature does not make the stone disappear.”

A moment later, he explained why the gesture landed differently from the silverware he has collected in Siena. “No, seriously: this does mean something. This is something different than a trophy you get on the podium. Every passer by or spectator can see this.”

The tribute may be permanent, but the work starts again on Saturday. 

Pogačar made it clear he has come to Tuscany with the familiar goal. “I really look forward to it. I worked hard this winter to start the season well,” he said. “I have had a good period with lots of training blocks, at home and on camp. I am excited, but time has gone so quickly.”

And when the obvious question came, whether anyone can go with him if he decides to light up Colle Pinzuto, he answered with a grin. “I hope no one rides on this sector in front of me, but someone like Paul Seixas looks good, yes.” he said.