Liège-Bastogne-Liège 2026: Pogacar Soars, Seixas Falters on Final Climb

Tadej Pogacar claimed his fourth Liège-Bastogne-Liège victory on Sunday, April 26, 2026, distancing himself from a talented young challenger in the race’s decisive moments. The Slovenian star pulled clear on the Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons with 12 kilometers remaining, ultimately securing a win that equals the monument records of Moreno Argentin and Alejandro Valverde.

The 260-kilometer classic unfolded as expected in its early stages, with a compact peloton navigating the opening arcs of Belgium’s Ardennes countryside. Still, the dynamics shifted dramatically in the final hour when Pogacar launched his attack on the ascent of the Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons, opening a 22-second gap over his pursuers at the summit.

Among those chasing was Paul Seixas, the 19-year-old French phenom who had arrived in Liège fresh from victory at La Flèche Wallonne just two days prior. Seixas had shown remarkable form throughout the spring classics, including second place at Strade Bianche and a third-place finish at the European Championships behind Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel.

As the race entered its closing kilometers, Seixas appeared poised to challenge for second place, riding steadily in the chase group. However, with approximately 10 kilometers to head, the teenager cracked under the sustained pressure applied by Pogacar. Race observers noted Seixas struggling to maintain contact as the Slovenian extended his advantage on the descent toward Liège.

Evenepoel had previously warned that Seixas might face difficulties in the race’s final stages, noting the significant jump in distance from the shorter classics where the Frenchman had excelled. “Seixas’s effort was impressive but it will be totally different in a 260km race – he’s only 19,” Evenepoel had said before the start. “Tadej and I undoubtedly have a bit more in the tank.”

Despite the setback, Seixas demonstrated resilience, attempting to recover on the descent and expressing determination to compete with sport’s elite. “Obviously, racing against Pogacar can only improve me,” Seixas stated. “I will try to compete with them tomorrow.” He acknowledged the challenge, adding: “I raced him at Strade Bianche and we saw the result. I reckon Tadej is now the best rider of all time.”

Pogacar, meanwhile, executed his race with characteristic precision. After launching his decisive move, he continued to extend his lead, eventually pushing alone through the streets of Liège with victory clearly within reach. The win marks his fourth triumph in Liège-Bastogne-Liège, placing him among the race’s most successful competitors in history.

The result reinforces Pogacar’s dominance in the spring classics while highlighting Seixas’ immense potential despite the disappointment. For the French teenager, the experience provides a valuable benchmark against the sport’s current pinnacle as he continues his breakout 2026 season.

Looking ahead, both riders will turn their attention to the upcoming calendar, with Pogacar aiming to extend his reign in the Ardennes classics and Seixas seeking to build on this experience in future monument attempts. The Liège-Bastogne-Liège result serves as another chapter in what promises to be a compelling rivalry between established champion and rising star.

For continuing coverage of the 2026 cycling season and updates on upcoming races, stay tuned to Archysport.