Tadej Pogačar Solos to Victory at Giro dell’Emilia in Signature Long-Range Attack
Tadej Pogačar once again demonstrated why he is one of the most dominant forces in professional cycling, securing a solo victory at the 2024 Giro dell’Emilia with a well-timed long-range attack. The Slovenian superstar, known for his relentless climbing ability and tactical genius, broke away from the pack on the final climb to San Luca to claim his second victory at the race, after winning it in 2021.
The Race Unfolds
The 106th edition of the Giro dell’Emilia, held on October 5, 2024, featured the traditional, punishing five ascents of the famous San Luca climb in Bologna. As anticipated, the race came down to the final laps on the steep gradients, where Pogačar’s UAE Team Emirates controlled the pace, slowly whittling down the peloton.
With around 20 kilometers to go, Pogačar made his move. In a familiar display of tactical aggression, he launched a solo attack, leaving his rivals scrambling to respond. While several of the world’s top riders attempted to follow, the Slovenian’s power and determination proved too much, as he steadily increased his lead.
Unstoppable on the San Luca
The final climb to San Luca is renowned for its steep 10% gradient, a section of the course that has become synonymous with decisive moments in the race. Pogačar, no stranger to excelling in such conditions, surged up the climb with a grace that left his competitors struggling. His legs, finely tuned after a strong season, made the final kilometers look effortless as he powered through to the finish.
Behind him, the chasing group, which included riders like Enric Mas (Movistar) and Primož Roglič (Bora-Hansgrohe), battled for the remaining podium spots, but no one could match Pogačar’s strength.
A Season of Triumphs
Pogačar’s win at the Giro dell’Emilia adds to an already illustrious 2024 season, which has included victories at the Tour de France, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and the Tour of Flanders. His ability to win both Grand Tours and one-day classics has cemented his status as a generational talent, and his performance at Emilia was another example of his well-rounded skillset.
“I love racing in Italy, and this race is always special for me,” said Pogačar after crossing the finish line. “The San Luca climb is one of my favorites, and I knew I had to attack early. The team did an amazing job setting me up, and I’m really happy to get another win here.”
Eyes on Lombardy
With the Giro dell’Emilia now in the books, Pogačar’s focus will shift to the final Monument of the season, Il Lombardia, which takes place next weekend. The race, also known as the “Race of the Falling Leaves,” is one of the most prestigious one-day events in cycling, and Pogačar is a two-time champion, having won in 2021 and 2022.
Given his current form, Pogačar will enter Lombardy as a top favorite, with this victory serving as a clear warning to his rivals.
Tadej Pogačar’s solo victory at the Giro dell’Emilia is a testament to his extraordinary talent and tactical brilliance. His long-range attack and dominance on the San Luca climb add yet another impressive chapter to his storied career. As the cycling world turns its attention to Il Lombardia, Pogačar will once again be the man to watch, with another potential victory in sight.
