'If he wins I don't have a problem with that' – Strade Bianche joint record holder Fabian Cancellara has no objections if Tadej Pogačar conquers fourth title on Saturday

Fabian Cancellara, joint record holder at Strade Bianche with three victories, has publicly stated he has "no problem" if Tadej Pogačar secures his fourth title at Saturday's race. The Swiss legend, whose last win was in 2016, expressed that it would be an "honour" to share the record with the Slovenian phenom, acknowledging Pogačar's exceptional talent. This comes as Pogačar prepares for his 2024 season debut, with Strade Bianche being his first major target.

Cancellara's comments arrive as Pogačar enters the Strade Bianche as the overwhelming favourite, having famously won the 2022 edition with an audacious 50km solo attack. The race, often seen as a barometer for early-season form and a showcase for Classics specialists, holds significant prestige. For Cancellara, a rider synonymous with dominant solo efforts, this endorsement of Pogačar's potential record-breaking ride underlines the Slovenian's growing stature and the respect he commands from the sport's greats.

Frankly, Cancellara's blessing was hardly required. Pogačar's legs will do the talking on the *sterrato*, and if he adds a fourth Strade Bianche to his palmarès, it will simply be another testament to his undeniable class, with or without Spartacus's imprimatur.