The cycling world was thrown into chaos just minutes before the official Il Lombardia 2025 post-race press conference. Johan Bruyneel, the former manager of the infamous US Postal team, caused an uproar during a live podcast when he demanded an immediate “power output test” for Tadej Pogačar — moments after the Slovenian superstar claimed his fifth consecutive Il Lombardia title. Visibly agitated, Bruyneel slammed his hand on the table mid-broadcast and declared in a trembling voice, “He scares me — it feels like the dark past is coming back.” His intense expression, cold eyes, and pointed gestures toward Pogačar’s record-breaking performance sent shockwaves through the cycling community. Within seconds, the live chat exploded, and social media lit up with heated debate.
According to witnesses, Bruyneel’s accusations centered around Pogačar’s astonishing climbing time on the final ascent — a segment where he reportedly broke multiple historical records by an unprecedented margin. “These numbers are unreal,” Bruyneel said, his tone sharp and commanding. “I’ve seen this before. When data stops making sense, it’s time to start asking real questions.”
The host, Daniel Martin — himself a former rider and now a respected commentator — appeared visibly uncomfortable as Bruyneel pressed on. Martin tried to shift the discussion toward Pogačar’s tactics and preparation, but Bruyneel refused to let go. After seventeen seconds of tense silence, Martin finally muttered, “I think we should end this discussion here.” The studio went quiet. Producers exchanged confused glances as the live stream abruptly cut off.
That moment of silence quickly became the spark for an international controversy. Within minutes, clips of the outburst spread across X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and cycling forums. Fans were divided — some defended Pogačar as a once-in-a-generation talent, while others echoed Bruyneel’s suspicions, referencing his history managing Lance Armstrong during one of the sport’s darkest eras.
Meanwhile, Pogačar’s team, UAE Team Emirates, responded swiftly with a calm but firm statement: “We categorically reject any insinuation of wrongdoing. Tadej’s performances are the result of years of dedication, science, and clean preparation. We invite anyone to examine our data transparently.”
The reaction from fellow riders was mixed. Geraint Thomas commented, “Bruyneel shouldn’t be the one casting shadows — not after what we’ve all lived through.” Yet others hinted that “data transparency” might indeed be the best way to end the speculation once and for all.
Cycling fans, journalists, and analysts now find themselves at the edge of another storm — one that feels eerily familiar. The ghosts of the past, from Armstrong’s confessions to countless doping scandals, still haunt the peloton. And while there is no evidence of any wrongdoing by Pogačar, Bruyneel’s words have opened old wounds and reignited distrust within the sport.
