Van der Poel endures Pogacar’s relentless challenge to secure his second triumph at Milan-San Remo.

The Dutchman secures his seventh monument, demonstrating remarkable composure and strength as he endures the relentless attacks from the world champion on both the Cipressa and the Poggio.

Mathieu Van der Poel proved himself to be the most formidable competitor in the legendary clash of titans at the Milan-San Remo 2025. The Dutchman secured his second triumph on the Via Roma, marking the seventh Monument of his illustrious career, after withstanding the relentless challenge posed by Tadej Pogacar, who gave it his all on both the Cipressa and the Poggio. It was a race to remember, a duel that crafted one of the most splendid chapters in the annals of cycling.

The world champion anticipated every move and left no stone unturned, yet he could not dislodge Van der Poel, who, in a remarkable exhibition of poise, managed to outpace Tadej and Ganna in the sprint once more, showcasing his finest form.

Precipitation preceding the tempest

As the hours and kilometres rolled on, it was, as is often the case in the Classicissima, rather uneventful, save for the trials faced by the peloton amid the biting cold and relentless rain of northern Italy’s protracted winter.

This is certainly not a pursuit for the timid. Everything unfolds as if on a gentle simmer, akin to a grand soirée, marked by decorum and subtlety, biding its time for the perfect occasion to fully unleash its potential. The Passo del Turchino and the capis stood once more as mere reminders of futility. With the initial challenges of the day passing without incident, it was uncertain whether Pogacar would make a move on the Cipressa or if the race would once again reach a boiling point on the Poggio. Let us proceed with the matter at hand.

Pogacar obliterates the Cipressa

We find ourselves in Liguria, with the most stunning final 20 kilometres of the season drawing near. This occasion saw the UAE seizing the opportunity presented by the race on the Cipressa, which stretches 5.6 km at a gradient of 4%. A collision at the tight beginning of the ascent splintered the peloton, yet the Emirati team regrouped to rev up the helicopter. Philipsen, still on the mend from his recent crash, had already slipped back and was no longer in the running.

It goes without saying that the KOM on the climb was secured. Wellens initiated the action, Narváez surged with intensity, and Pogacar unleashed his formidable strength to shatter the front group, determining the contenders for victory. Van der Poel navigated the challenge with remarkable composure, while a determined Ganna clung on as best as he could. The trio completed the descent a full 49 seconds ahead, leaving a trail of uncertainty in their wake.

Ultimate torment on the Poggio

The Poggio di Sanremo emerged once more as the decisive arena. A determined Pogacar unleashed three fierce assaults. Ganna made his move early on, establishing a lead that he could only bridge just before the final dash.

Van der Poel clenched his jaw, steadfast in the face of Tadej’s relentless onslaught, who infused one of cycling’s most renowned ascents with fervour and intensity. In a dramatic finale, he launched an attack on the esteemed leader of Alpecin, aiming to replicate his triumph from 2023, yet Pogacar was resolute, refusing to be outmanoeuvred. Exemplary management by Van der Poel, who, with unwavering confidence, embraced the challenge of the final sprint.

We have arrived at Via Roma. Ganna successfully connected and put forth his utmost effort in the final sprint. However, there was hardly anything he could undertake. Van der Poel showcased his prowess on the stage, securing his second Classicissima with remarkable authority. Pogacar secured a commendable third place once again. An exceptional display of skill. It is quite certain that the reigning champion will make another attempt, much to the delight of all concerned.