The cobbled Classics storylines we're looking forward to – From Van der Poel and Pogačar on the cusp of history to a different Demi Vollering and a resurgent Mads Pedersen

CyclingNews has published its annual preview of the cobbled Classics, spotlighting the narratives expected to dominate the spring campaign. Among the headliners are Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogačar, both eyeing historic achievements. The piece also flags a "different" Demi Vollering and a "resurgent" Mads Pedersen as riders to watch, indicating a season ripe with potential for both established stars and those seeking a return to form.

This pre-Classics analysis is crucial as it sets the stage for what is arguably the most anticipated period of the professional cycling calendar. Van der Poel's pursuit of a third consecutive Flanders, or Pogačar's ambition to add another Monument to his already glittering palmarès, represents the pinnacle of modern cycling rivalry. Vollering's form, following her dominant 2023, and Pedersen's consistent threat on the cobbles, underscore the depth of talent, ensuring that the battles for these hallowed races will be fiercely contested and strategically fascinating.

Ultimately, CyclingNews's preview confirms what we already suspected: the cobbled Classics will deliver drama. The only real question is which of these compelling storylines will ultimately be penned into cycling history.