Another attack on Monte Sante Marie just like in 2022 and 2024, another triumph in Piazza del Campo, this time with a bow to the crowd under the Torre del Mangia. The longest gravel section of Strade Bianche, which is dedicated to Fabian Cancellara, is becoming Tadej Pogacar's favorite place: after all, it's here, with the uphill gravel, that the real difference is made.

The Slovenian joked in the post-race interview: «Why did I attack so early? You need to ask the organizers, because there were supposed to be 30 km less of racing (two gravel sections were eliminated, ed.) and therefore there should have been 30 km less of attacking. The key is anyway that this section is the hardest part of the race, and therefore the best place to attack».

What did you think when you saw Paul Seixas behind you?
«I had to push even harder, I needed to open the throttle and increase my lead because I knew that once we got past the hardest part, I could maintain the gap. In the end he slowed down a bit and I was able to increase my advantage, but Seixas definitely impressed me, he rode a superb race and showed how to race under pressure. This guy is a monster on the bike, he had incredible legs to get the result. He's a great machine, we'll talk a lot about him in the future».

Fourth victory at Strade Bianche: how important is this result?
«It was an excellent start to the season for me. This is one of the most beautiful races in the world, and winning here gives me great confidence and motivation for the rest of the year».

Now the Sanremo, Saturday March 21: perhaps the most difficult race to win.
«Yes, let's wait two weeks and we'll see. Tomorrow I rest and then focus on Sanremo: we'll give everything again».

At the start of 2026 you lost Narvaez and Wellens to injuries. How much does this matter in terms of team strategy?
«It's really a shame, they were very important for Sanremo but I'm fortunate with my teammates, even the substitutes are excellent, and I don't stress too much about it. The goal is always the same: to win».

Today at the crucial moment Isaac Del Toro was decisive...
«He's really super strong, he's a very good guy, I like working with him in the race. I wish him all the best for his career and I hope that together we'll achieve a lot in the coming years».