Bernard Hinault: Tadej Pogacar, The Next Merckx?

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Post on Apr 10, 2025

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Bernard Hinault: Is Tadej Pogacar the Next Merckx? A Cycling Legend Weighs In

The cycling world is abuzz. Can anyone truly compare to Eddy Merckx, the "Cannibal"? While many have tried, few have even come close. But now, a new generation of cyclists is emerging, spearheaded by the phenomenal Tadej Pogacar. And even cycling legend Bernard Hinault, a five-time Tour de France winner known for his aggressive riding style, is taking notice. He’s posed the question on everyone's lips: Is Pogacar the next Merckx?

Hinault, a man who doesn't shy away from expressing his opinions, recently offered his assessment of the young Slovenian superstar. His comments, brimming with both praise and measured caution, have ignited a passionate debate amongst cycling enthusiasts worldwide. Let's delve into what the “Badger” had to say and analyze whether Pogacar truly has the potential to reach the mythical heights of Merckx.

Pogacar's Palpable Power: A Statistical Look

Pogacar’s achievements are undeniably impressive. His two Tour de France victories, his dominance in the UAE Tour, and his consistent performances in Grand Tours are undeniable evidence of his exceptional talent. The sheer power he displays in mountain stages, his tactical acumen, and his ability to recover from setbacks are all reminiscent of cycling greats. A quick look at the stats highlights his dominance:

• Two Tour de France Wins: A feat achieved by only a select few.
• Multiple Grand Tour Podium Finishes: Demonstrating consistent high-level performance.
• Numerous Classic Wins: Highlighting versatility and strength across different race terrains.
• Unmatched Climbing Prowess: A key ingredient to Grand Tour success.

However, simply comparing statistics isn't enough. Merckx's legacy extends beyond mere numbers. It's about an aura of invincibility, a ruthless efficiency, and a seemingly endless capacity for winning.

Beyond the Numbers: The Intangibles of Greatness

Hinault acknowledges Pogacar's raw talent but emphasizes the importance of longevity and consistency. Merckx's reign was characterized by an unmatched consistency across multiple years. While Pogacar has shown incredible potential, he still needs to prove he can maintain this level of performance over a prolonged period. The pressure of maintaining dominance, the challenges of injuries, and the inevitable fluctuations in form all play a role.

Hinault's perspective highlights the crucial intangible elements:

• Mental Fortitude: The ability to handle immense pressure and bounce back from setbacks.
• Longevity: Maintaining peak performance over several years, a true test of a champion.
• Versatility: Winning across diverse terrains and race formats.

The Verdict: A Promising Future, But the Merckx Comparison Remains Premature

While Pogacar possesses the talent and the early-career results to warrant comparisons to cycling legends, declaring him the "next Merckx" at this stage would be premature. He has undoubtedly set the cycling world alight with his breathtaking performances. His aggressive style and ability to deliver stunning victories are captivating to watch. But the legend of Eddy Merckx is built on decades of unparalleled dominance.

Time, therefore, will be the ultimate judge. Pogacar's journey is still unfolding, and only time will reveal if he can truly match the unparalleled achievements and enduring legacy of Eddy Merckx. However, one thing is certain: Tadej Pogacar is a force to be reckoned with, a potential future legend in his own right. Whether he surpasses Merckx remains to be seen, but his place among cycling's greats is already secure.