Van der Poel Suddenly Looks Human Before Pogačar Showdown at Flanders

Dutch superstar Mathieu van der Poel heads into the Tour of Flanders with uncharacteristic question marks surrounding his form, following a spring campaign marked by inconsistency. While he secured a dominant E3 Saxo Classic victory, his performances at Milan-San Remo and Gent-Wevelgem were notably subdued, raising concerns about his readiness to face the formidable Tadej Pogačar in Sunday's monument. This fluctuating form contrasts sharply with his usual imperious run-up to major Classics.

This sudden vulnerability is significant given Van der Poel's established dominance in the cobbled Classics and his career-long rivalry with Pogačar. Historically, the Dutchman has been the benchmark on the Flemish bergs, often arriving at Flanders having already asserted his authority. His recent struggles, however, offer a glimmer of hope for his rivals and, crucially, level the playing field against a Pogačar who has appeared almost untouchable this season, aiming to add a second Ronde title to his palmarès.

Ultimately, Van der Poel's perceived "humanity" merely amplifies the anticipation for Sunday. It suggests that for once, the script isn't pre-written, and Flanders might just deliver the genuinely unpredictable spectacle it often promises but rarely achieves.