Tadej Pogacar is the strong favorite for tomorrow's Strade Bianche and at his season debut he can count on countless fans. In Siena there are two very special ones, mom Marjeta and dad Mirko, who with the kindness that characterizes their son granted us this interview in the shadow of the Medici Fortress, where the team presentation just took place and cycling's number 1 received a roar of affection.

What does it feel like to have brought a phenomenon into the world?
«Despite becoming a global star, for us Tadej is simply our "little boy", like our other three children. We are proud of each of them, the others are establishing themselves in different ways, in other fields. As parents we try to support them as best we can, each one has their own needs, which are important to us».

Are his sporting results only due to your DNA?
«No, no (mom Marjeta jokes, who speaking both English and French fluently, manages to be more talkative than her husband, editor's note). Certainly natural talents play a role, but what he has managed to achieve is the result of hard daily work. Since he was 12 years old he has never gone to a party or skipped a training session. He didn't organize a party for his 18th or 20th birthday because he had races, he trains with commitment and is focused on doing this job as best as he can».

Does his popularity frighten you?
«Being a public figure is demanding and so we worry that he might "get tired" early of all the pressure and expectations surrounding him, but he will do what he feels. We are happy that for now he is enjoying it, that he hasn't lost his enthusiasm for this sport which has been his passion since childhood».

What do you wish for him?
«That he is always healthy and happy, that he enjoys every experience he is living and is at peace with Urska (his longtime partner, who also races in the top category, editor's note)».