'I don't think Tadej needs to attack on the Cipressa' - Mathieu van der Poel plays tactical mind games with Milan-San Remo rival Pogačar

Mathieu van der Poel, the reigning Milan-San Remo champion, has engaged in some pre-race psychological manoeuvring, stating that Tadej Pogačar "doesn't need to attack on the Cipressa." Speaking ahead of Saturday's Monument, the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider acknowledged the unpredictable nature of La Primavera, subtly shifting pressure onto his perceived main rival, Pogačar, who is widely expected to launch a decisive move on the Poggio or even earlier.

This seemingly innocuous comment is a calculated play from a rider who understands the nuances of San Remo better than most. Pogačar's aggressive tendencies are well-documented, often leading to spectacular solo victories, but San Remo's length and unique parcours demand patience. Van der Poel's remarks could be interpreted as an attempt to either bait Pogačar into an early, potentially ill-fated attack, or conversely, to plant a seed of doubt that might temper the Slovenian's usual all-out assault, thereby altering the race dynamic to Van der Poel's advantage.

Ultimately, Van der Poel's musings are classic pre-race theatre. While Pogačar will undoubtedly ride his own race, the reigning champion is merely reminding everyone that in San Remo, the strongest legs don't always win; the smartest often do.