From Rainbow Jersey to Falling Leaves: Pogačar Chases Historic Fifth Win at Il Lombardia

# Pogačar Aims for Historic Fifth Victory at Il Lombardia

Every year, Tadej Pogačar sets new benchmarks in his cycling career, but one race remains a fixture on his calendar: Il Lombardia. The UAE Team Emirates-XRG leader has dominated this prestigious race, having won it four consecutive times in the past four years. Now, he’s setting his sights on a fifth triumph—a feat that would tie him with Italian legend Fausto Coppi for the all-time record.

Pogačar’s impressive winning streak is already a significant achievement, but this upcoming milestone would cement his legacy in the century-long history of the Classic of the Falling Leaves. Fresh off his world championship victory in Kigali, Rwanda, Pogačar showcased his prowess by attacking with 104 kilometers to go and soloing for the last 66 kilometers. Doubts about his fitness seem unfounded, as he returns from the Tour de France stronger and more motivated than ever.

The Slovenian cyclist has illustrated his adaptability in previous editions of Il Lombardia. In 2021, he displayed tactical acumen by winning a sprint finish against Fausto Masnada in Bergamo, the same finish line for this year’s race. The following year, he outpaced Enric Mas in Como. In 2023, Pogačar altered his approach by launching an unexpected attack on the Passo di Ganda shortly before the summit, leading to a solo victory. Notably, last year, he completely dominated the field, leaving second-placed Remco Evenepoel behind by an impressive 3 minutes and 16 seconds after devastating attacks on the Colma di Sormano.

This time around, Pogačar will race wearing his freshly renewed rainbow jersey, a symbol of his world champion status that he will proudly don for another year. Additionally, he stands a chance to add the European champion’s jersey to his accolades, although the rainbow jersey takes precedence and would limit him from wearing both simultaneously.

Whatever the outcome, Saturday, October 11, marks another significant date for Pogačar as he sets out to chase history. Given his past performances, fans and competitors alike can expect him to arrive right on time.