Van der Poel and Pogacar Set for Showdown at 2026 Milan-San Remo

Pavia, Italy – All eyes will be on the 117th edition of Milan-San Remo this Saturday, as cycling’s two biggest stars, Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar, prepare to battle it out on the iconic Italian course. The 298-kilometer race, starting in Pavia and culminating in Sanremo, promises a thrilling contest between the reigning champion and a determined challenger.

The anticipation surrounding this year’s race is particularly high, fueled by the dominance of Van der Poel and Pogacar in recent Monument races. Since the 2024 Tour of Flanders, these two riders have claimed all the major one-day classics, establishing a clear rivalry that has captivated cycling fans worldwide. For those unfamiliar, the “Monument” races are the five most prestigious one-day cycling races: Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and Lombardy.

Van der Poel’s Pursuit of History

Mathieu van der Poel, 31, of Alpecin-Premier Tech, is aiming for his third victory at Milan-San Remo, having previously triumphed in 2023 and 2025. His recent form is impressive, highlighted by stage wins at the Tirreno-Adriatico, demonstrating his ability to peak at crucial moments. Van der Poel’s versatility – excelling in both road cycling and cyclocross – makes him a formidable opponent on any terrain.

Pogacar’s Determination

Tadej Pogacar, while yet to secure a win at Milan-San Remo, has consistently been a top contender, finishing third in both 2024 and 2025. His performance at the Strade Bianche earlier this season, where he dominated the race, signals his strong form and unwavering ambition to finally claim victory on the Via Roma. Pogacar’s aggressive riding style and tactical acumen make him a constant threat.

The Course: A Classic Challenge

The Milan-San Remo course is renowned for its challenging profile, featuring a series of climbs known as the “Capi” – Mele, Cervo, and Berta – before the decisive ascents of the Cipressa and the Poggio. The final kilometers, particularly the Poggio, often witness explosive attacks and tactical maneuvering as riders battle for position. The race’s unpredictable nature means that even the strongest riders can be caught out by a well-timed move or unexpected weather conditions.

Ganna as a Contender

While Van der Poel and Pogacar are the clear favorites, Filippo Ganna cannot be discounted. He has twice finished second in the race, in 2023 and 2025, proving his ability to contend for the top spot. Ganna’s powerful time-trialing skills and endurance make him a dangerous rider, especially on the flatter sections of the course.

What to Watch For

Several key factors will likely influence the outcome of the race. The tactical battle between Van der Poel and Pogacar will be crucial, with each rider attempting to exploit the other’s weaknesses. The performance of their respective teams will also be vital, as they glance to control the pace and position their leaders for the final climbs. Finally, the weather conditions could play a significant role, with rain or wind potentially disrupting the race and favoring certain riders.

The unpredictable nature of Milan-San Remo is part of its allure. While Van der Poel and Pogacar are the riders to watch, the race has a history of surprising results, and a dark horse could emerge victorious. The combination of a challenging course, strong contenders, and unpredictable conditions promises a captivating spectacle for cycling fans around the globe.

Following Milan-San Remo, both Van der Poel and Pogacar are expected to continue their seasons with participation in other major races, including the upcoming spring classics and Grand Tours. Their rivalry is set to continue throughout the year, promising more thrilling battles on the road.

The 2026 Milan-San Remo is scheduled to begin at approximately 10:00 AM CET (Central European Time) / 4:00 AM EDT (Eastern Daylight Time). Fans can follow live updates and coverage on various sports websites and television channels.

What are your predictions for this year’s Milan-San Remo? Share your thoughts in the comments below!