Breaking news :It’s Obvious That He Is Now Above Me’ – Eddy Merckx Hails Tadej Pogačar After….
**‘It’s Obvious That He Is Now Above Me’ – Eddy Merckx Hails Tadej Pogačar After Worlds Exhibition**
In a rare and poignant admission, cycling legend Eddy Merckx has declared Tadej Pogačar as his successor at the pinnacle of cycling greatness following a standout exhibition performance at the 2024 UCI Road World Championships. Merckx, often regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time, expressed deep admiration for Pogačar’s talent and achievements, signaling a passing of the torch to the 25-year-old Slovenian rider.
### The Remarkable Rise of Tadej Pogačar
Tadej Pogačar’s meteoric rise in the world of professional cycling has been nothing short of extraordinary. With two Tour de France victories already under his belt by the age of 22, he has since amassed a series of major wins, including monuments like the Tour of Flanders and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. His aggressive style, technical skill, and versatility across all types of terrain have drawn comparisons to Merckx throughout his career.
At the 2024 Worlds exhibition race, Pogačar further solidified his legacy with a stunning display of strength, attacking at will and leaving other top riders in his wake. The performance captured the attention of cycling fans worldwide and prompted Merckx, now 78, to publicly recognize Pogačar’s dominance.
### Merckx’s Words of Praise
Following the race, Merckx, a five-time Tour de France winner and widely considered the sport’s “Cannibal” for his relentless approach to racing, did not hold back in his praise. Speaking to reporters, he acknowledged Pogačar as the new standard-bearer in professional cycling.
“It’s obvious that he is now above me,” Merckx said. “Tadej has achieved things in this sport that are exceptional, and he’s still so young. His consistency, his versatility, his ability to win in any conditions or terrain—I never thought I’d see a rider of his caliber in my lifetime.”
Merckx’s comments carry significant weight, as he is a figure whose dominance from the 1960s to the 1970s shaped modern professional cycling. Winning 11 Grand Tours and countless other races during his career, Merckx’s record of 525 victories remains untouched. However, his recognition of Pogačar as his successor speaks volumes about the Slovenian’s potential to surpass even those historic achievements.
### Pogačar’s Reaction
Humbled by Merckx’s statement, Pogačar expressed deep respect for the cycling icon, acknowledging the inspiration Merckx has provided throughout his career.
“It’s incredible to hear something like that from Eddy Merckx, someone I’ve looked up to my whole life,” Pogačar said. “I don’t think anyone can truly surpass what Eddy achieved in his time, but to be compared to him is something I never imagined. I just want to keep pushing myself and keep racing with passion.”
Despite the accolades, Pogačar has remained grounded. Known for his humility and sportsmanship, he consistently emphasizes that he is still learning and growing in the sport. With years ahead of him, many believe Pogačar is poised to redefine what is possible in modern cycling, continuing to build on his already impressive résumé.
### The Changing of the Guard
Merckx’s endorsement of Pogačar as the sport’s new king is emblematic of a broader generational shift in cycling. Pogačar, along with fellow young stars like Jonas Vingegaard and Remco Evenepoel, has ushered in a new era of riders who are rewriting the record books at a pace not seen since Merckx’s heyday.
Cycling analysts and fans alike have marveled at Pogačar’s dominance across disciplines—whether it’s climbing mountains in the Alps, powering through cobblestones in the Classics, or sprinting for wins on flatter stages. His adaptability, combined with a fearless racing style, has made him a fan favorite and one of the most formidable competitors in the peloton.
### A Legacy in the Making
As the 2024 season progresses, Pogačar will continue to be the rider to watch, with many wondering just how far he can push the limits of the sport. Already, speculation is growing about his potential to challenge Merckx’s five Tour de France titles and cement his place as the greatest of all time.
With Merckx now openly hailing Pogačar as the rider who has surpassed him, the pressure is on for the Slovenian star to continue his ascent to cycling immortality. However, given his talent and mental fortitude, Pogačar appears more than ready to meet the challenge.
### Conclusion
Eddy Merckx’s admission that Tadej Pogačar is now “above” him marks a significant moment in the history of cycling. As Pogačar continues to rise, it is clear that the sport is witnessing a once-in-a-generation talent. With Merckx passing the torch, the spotlight is firmly on Pogačar as he embarks on the next chapter of his already legendary career, potentially eclipsing the very man who once stood as the undisputed king of cycling.
