The world of cycling is abuzz with speculation about Tadej Pogacar's performance in the Tour de France, and one former pro rider's observations have sparked an intriguing narrative. Laurens ten Dam, a keen observer of the sport, has noticed a change in Pogacar's demeanor, suggesting that the demands of the race may be taking a toll on the champion.
The Signs of Fatigue
Ten Dam's comments highlight a shift in Pogacar's usual bright-eyed and energetic presence. He notes that Pogacar appeared worn out during an interview, a stark contrast to his typically sprightly self. This observation, coupled with the fast-paced nature of recent stages and Pogacar's media commitments, leads ten Dam to believe that the rider is feeling the strain.
A History of Resilience
In the 2025 edition, Pogacar showcased his resilience by wearing the yellow jersey for an impressive thirteen days en route to his fourth win. This year, he's maintained a strong presence, donning the yellow jersey in eight stages and standing atop the podium three times. However, ten Dam's theory gains traction when we consider the final week of the 2025 Tour, where Pogacar's attacks became less frequent, and his mood dipped, ultimately revealing fatigue and a knee injury.
The Team's Morale and Strategy
Ten Dam also assesses the morale within the Visma | Lease a Bike team, questioning their public optimism about reeling in Pogacar's lead. He believes that the team's morale might be lower than they project, especially considering the physical challenges faced by some riders. Ten Dam advises against provoking Pogacar, suggesting that the team should not set a high tempo, as this could backfire.
The Third Week Conundrum
However, ten Dam doesn't rule out the possibility of Pogacar reaching a breaking point. He believes the third week, with its long climbs, could be a turning point. Cracks in the UAE team's performance have been noted, and ten Dam suggests that Visma should aim to control the gap between the riders, ready to capitalize on any weaknesses that may emerge.
A Personal Perspective
Personally, I think ten Dam's analysis is spot-on. The physical and mental demands of the Tour de France are immense, and it's fascinating to see how riders navigate these challenges. Pogacar's resilience is remarkable, but even the greatest champions can show signs of fatigue. The third week could be a make-or-break moment, and it will be interesting to see how Pogacar and his team navigate this crucial phase. It's a testament to the sport's unpredictability and the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest level.
