The Pogacar Paradox: When Dominance Meets Strategy in Cycling’s Ardennes Classic
There’s something almost poetic about Tadej Pogacar’s approach to cycling. It’s not just about winning—though he does that a lot—it’s about how he wins. As the UAE Team Emirates-XRG prepares for this Sunday’s Liege-Bastogne-Liege, the narrative isn’t just about Pogacar’s near-invincible form; it’s about the strategic depth his team is bringing to the table. And personally, I think this is where the story gets truly fascinating.
Pogacar’s 2026 campaign has been nothing short of extraordinary. Strade Bianche, Milano-Sanremo, Tour of Flanders—he’s ticked them off like a checklist. Even at Paris-Roubaix, he pushed Wout van Aert to the brink. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how UAE is leveraging his dominance. Instead of relying solely on Pogacar’s superhuman legs, they’re building a multi-pronged strategy. Enter Benoit Cosnefroy.
Cosnefroy’s recent form is impossible to ignore. Podiums at Brabantse Pijl and Amstel Gold Race? That’s not just luck—it’s a rider in peak condition. What many people don’t realize is that Cosnefroy’s presence gives UAE a tactical flexibility they’ve rarely had. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about having a Plan B; it’s about having a Plan A.5. Pogacar remains the focal point, but Cosnefroy’s ability to animate the race late in the day could be a game-changer.
In my opinion, this dual-threat approach is a masterstroke. Liege-Bastogne-Liege is a race that rewards both individual brilliance and collective strength. With Pavel Sivakov and Domen Novak providing climbing support, and Vegard Stake Laengen and Rune Herregodts offering early-race depth, UAE is covering all bases. Even Tim Wellens, returning from injury, adds a layer of experience that could prove crucial in the chaotic finale.
But here’s the thing: Pogacar doesn’t need this level of support to win. His track record at Liege—three victories already—speaks for itself. A fourth win would put him in the same league as legends like Moreno Argentin and Alejandro Valverde. So why the elaborate setup? From my perspective, it’s about control. UAE isn’t just aiming to win; they’re aiming to dominate. They’re not just playing the race; they’re dictating it.
This raises a deeper question: What does it mean when a team with the sport’s most dominant rider still feels the need to stack the deck? To me, it suggests that cycling is evolving. It’s no longer enough to have the strongest rider; you need a team that can adapt, innovate, and outthink the competition. UAE’s lineup for Liege is a testament to this shift.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Pogacar himself is framing this race. In his recent comments, he didn’t just praise Cosnefroy’s form—he emphasized the team’s collective effort. What this really suggests is that even Pogacar, the undisputed king of the peloton, understands the value of collaboration. It’s a subtle shift in mindset, but one that could redefine his legacy.
Looking ahead, I can’t help but wonder: Is this the future of cycling? Will we see more teams adopting this layered approach, where even the strongest riders are backed by equally formidable teammates? If so, it could make races like Liege-Bastogne-Liege even more unpredictable—and, frankly, more exciting.
As Sunday’s race approaches, one thing is clear: UAE Team Emirates-XRG isn’t just aiming for victory; they’re aiming for a statement. And whether Pogacar crosses the line first or not, their strategy is already a win for the sport.
Final Thought: Cycling has always been a balance of power and tactics, but UAE’s approach this weekend feels like a new chapter. It’s not just about who’s the strongest; it’s about who’s the smartest. And in that game, Pogacar and his team might just be unbeatable.
