Often placed, never winner, Tadej Pogacar will today try to win the first monument of the Milan – San Remo season, for that he will have to beat Van der Poel who will be the other big favorite in the race.
Two weeks after his demonstration at the Bianche Strade, despite a heavy fall, Tadej Pogacar approaches Milan-San Remo with the status of designated favorite. But the Primavera, a long ribbon of 298 km between the Lombardy and the Riviera, remains the only monument that escapes it. Fifth, fourth and then third in the past years, the Slovenian has not yet found the key to a race as tactical as indecisive. “” It is a monument where you can win without being the strongest “, judge Mathieu van der Poel. Same analysis at Victor Lafay:” This is the monument that is the least played on physical qualities. For me it is first of all a very tactical race where everyone can shine “”
Pogacar ready to attack, but on which land?
The leader of UAE Team Emirates prepared this meeting with meticulousness, refining his plans with his lieutenants Wellens, Del Toro, Narvaez, Novak, Politt and Laengen. Asked about his strategy, the world champion was enigmatic: “Several scenarios are possible. We will do everything to be in the best position.” However, an interrogation persists on his physical condition after his fall in Tuscany. “” I resumed the bike on Monday. I had some pains, but I feel ready “He said optimistic.
Could Pogacar surprise as soon as the “La Cipressa” ascent 36 km from the finish? A bit like what the Slovenian has undertaken during his impressive success at the Tour de Lombardie (victorious after a lonely raid of 48km). Some see it as a credible scenario, provided that the wind lends itself to it. “” Nothing is impossible, but it means that you have to sacrifice your whole team there then. It also depends a lot on the wind (announced from the back), if it blows from the front in the cipressa, I don’t think it’s possible“, Nuancé Van der Poel. The Dutchman, the other big favorite in the race and winner in 2023, prepared via Tirreno-Adriatico and says” Always as motivated, especially in front of a runner like Tadej who pushes you to surpass yourself “. Another pretender, Jasper Philipsen tackles this edition with uncertainty after a fall Wednesday in Nokere. The Belgian reassured his presence, without hiding his lack of guarantees:” This fall obviously had an enormous impact on my body (cuts on the hand, superficial injuries and cutters on the right side of the body), it will not be easy, but I want to try my luck. And if I don’t feel very good, I would of course put myself at the service of the team. “
Mohoric, Pedersen, Alaphilippe: Outsiders to monitor
At Bahrain Victorious, Matej Mohoric keeps hope despite a truncated preparation: ” I do not know yet if I am ready to play the win, but I will behave as if I was. “The Danish Mads Pedersen, in full confidence after his green jersey in Paris-Nice, seems to be armed to create a surprise. With three podiums on the monuments and a 4th place in Sanremo in 2023, the runner of Lidl-Trek targets clearly. Finally, Julian Alaphilippe, convincing at the start of the season under the colors of Tudor Pro Cycling, hopes to hang a top 10.
What time will the race take place?
The first monument of the season will be played this Saturday, March 22, the departure is scheduled at 10:15 am.
On which TV channel is broadcast Milan – San Remo 2025?
The Milan – San Remo race is to be followed live exclusively on Eurosport 1 and Eurosport Max from 10:00 am.
What streaming broadcast for Milan – San Remo 2025?
For subscribers, the event will be broadcast in streaming on the Max platform.
The different ribs
Two big favorites stand out for the victory with bookmakers, Pogacar and Van der Poel.
Betclic: Pogacar 3.25 / Van der Poel 3.75 / Pedersen 6.00
Winamax: POGACAR 3.50 / VAN DER POEL 4.00 / PEDERSEN 6.00
Unibet: POGACAR 3.25 / VAN DER POEL 3.75 / PEDERSEN 6.00