This bold statement by the three cycling stars has sent shockwaves throughout the professional cycling community. Quintana, known for his aggressive style and fierce determination, expressed frustration at Pogacar’s seemingly unstoppable ascent. “Every time we think we have a chance, Pogacar surprises us with his brilliance.
It’s no longer just about competing against him; it’s about surviving his dominance,” Quintana said. His words were not just a lament but a prediction of the Slovenian’s unyielding control over the sport. Bernal, the Colombian rider who famously won the 2019 Tour de France, echoed Quintana’s concerns. He highlighted how Pogacar’s performances have redefined the sport’s landscape. “Pogacar is a new breed of cyclist. His combination of power, stamina, and tactical intelligence is unmatched. I believe we are seeing the future of cycling right now,” said Bernal. Both riders agree that, starting from 2026, Pogacar’s reign will be inevitable, changing the nature of Grand Tours and one-day races alike.
Vincenzo Nibali, the Italian veteran, also joined the conversation, sharing his perspective on how the Slovenian prodigy’s consistency and ability to adapt to different terrains have set him apart. “It’s not just about winning stages; it’s about controlling every aspect of a race. Pogacar does that flawlessly,” Nibali said. His insight underlined the reality of the challenge that the current generation of cyclists faces when going up against a rider like Pogacar, who appears to have no weaknesses.
The trio’s comments have resonated deeply within the cycling community, with many agreeing that Pogacar’s dominance is unprecedented. In a sport where legends are made, Pogacar’s rapid rise to the top has stunned even the most seasoned veterans. His victories at the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and other prestigious races have left little room for doubt: Slovenia has emerged as the new epicenter of cycling excellence.
However, the more unsettling aspect of these predictions is the fear that Pogacar’s reign may leave little room for new challengers. Quintana, Bernal, and Nibali have all struggled to beat him, with each race revealing just how difficult it will be to dethrone him. “We’ve all had our time at the top,” said Nibali. “But Pogacar is different. It’s hard to imagine anyone being able to do what he’s doing right now.”
As Pogacar continues to dominate, many in the cycling world are left questioning the future of competition. Will the sport become a one-man show? And how will younger riders cope with the immense pressure of facing off against such a dominant force? The looming question is whether cycling will continue to attract the same level of excitement and anticipation if Pogacar’s superiority becomes absolute.
The three cycling legends also raised concerns about the mental and physical toll that such dominance can have on the sport. “Cycling is meant to be unpredictable, exciting. If one person always wins, the sport might lose its magic,” said Bernal. This stark warning emphasizes a growing sentiment that Pogacar’s dominance, if unchecked, could alter the sport’s appeal for fans and future athletes alike.
Despite the concerns, Pogacar’s achievements cannot be denied. He has established himself as one of the greatest talents in cycling history, and his place in the sport’s legacy is already secured. With the predictions of Quintana, Bernal, and Nibali ringing in the ears of many, the question remains: Can anyone rise to challenge the Slovenian champion, or will his reign truly last indefinitely?
As the years pass, the cycling world watches with bated breath, knowing that Pogacar’s dominance may only grow stronger. For now, the challenge is clear: to dethrone a rider who has already proven to be a nightmare for his rivals.
