Pogacar struggles to grasp Alpe d'Huez triumph's magnitude

Tadej Pogacar achieved a significant victory on the iconic Alpe d'Huez during the Tour de France, marking his fifth stage win of the race. However, the Slovenian cyclist admitted he is struggling to comprehend the full weight of this particular triumph amidst his already decorated career.

“

I would actually say that the victory means the same as all other victories, but now that every single journalist is explaining how big this victory is, I might understand it when everything has calmed down a bit.

"I would actually say that the victory means the same as all other victories, but now that every single journalist is explaining how big this victory is, I might understand it when everything has calmed down a bit," Pogacar remarked. He seemed unfazed by surpassing Marco Pantani's 1995 record on the climb, stating he was unaware of the previous time and prefers to stay off the internet during the race.

“

I didn't know what Pantani's time was. I stay away from the internet these weeks. I don't care that much about it, but I have heard that I have broken the record, and I am glad about that.

Pogacar's team has faced challenges with illness in the preceding week. He acknowledged the difficulties his teammates endured, mentioning Adam Yates's severe sickness and Felix Großschartner's efforts in recent days. Despite these setbacks, Pogacar was pleased to have secured the win, dedicating it to his team's resilience and hard work.

“

Adam (Yates) was really, really sick during the time trial. He was white as a sheet, but has gotten better as the days have gone by. I was happy to be able to ride behind him on the last climb.

"We lifted ourselves, and they gave everything. It was nice to be able to finish the job. This victory is for them," Pogacar said, highlighting the team's recovery and his appreciation for their support. He currently holds a commanding lead of over seven minutes in the general classification heading into the penultimate stage of the race.

“

We lifted ourselves, and they gave everything. It was nice to be able to finish the job. This victory is for them.