Geraint Thomas’ Role in the Pogačar-Vingegaard Rivalry and the Giro-Tour Double Challenge
The Giro-Tour Double: A Daunting Task
With the 2024 cycling season fast approaching, cycling enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France, two of the sport’s most prestigious races. While conquering either event is a monumental feat, the Giro-Tour double—winning both races in the same year—has proven elusive since Marco Pantani’s historic triumph in 1998.
Jens Voigt’s Perspective
For Jens Voigt, a former professional cyclist and current cycling commentator, Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates) possesses the talent and determination to emulate Pantani’s achievement. Voigt also sees Geraint Thomas (Ineos Grenadiers) as a contender in both races, albeit in different capacities.
The Challenges of the Double
Voigt attributes the scarcity of Giro-Tour double winners to the physiological changes that occur as riders age. As cyclists transition from “high-revving engines” to “turbo diesels,” maintaining peak performance for two consecutive Grand Tours becomes increasingly difficult.
Thomas’ Strategic Approach
Geraint Thomas, now 37 years old, plans to target the Giro d’Italia in May before transitioning to a support role for younger teammates like Tom Pidcock and Carlos Rodríguez at the Tour de France. Voigt believes this strategy could benefit Thomas, allowing him to pace himself and conserve energy for the season’s second half.
Pogačar’s Ambition and Strengths
Tadej Pogačar, at just 25 years old, represents a new generation of riders willing to take on the Giro-Tour double challenge. His aggressive racing style and exceptional climbing abilities make him a formidable contender in both races.
Science and Training Advancements
Voigt emphasizes the significant improvements in training methods and scientific understanding since his racing days. Riders now have access to advanced data and metrics that enable them to fine-tune their preparation and optimize their performances.
Balancing Peak Performance
Voigt acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining peak fitness for both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France, given the short recovery period between the two races. However, he believes that with careful planning and proper coaching, it is possible to manage the workload and achieve success in both events.
Pogačar’s Potential and Fan Support
Voigt expresses his admiration for Pogačar’s racing style and his ability to attack from afar. He believes Pogačar has the potential to achieve the Giro-Tour double, especially considering his determination to regain the Tour de France title after two consecutive second-place finishes to Jonas Vingegaard.
The Giro-Vuelta Double: A More Feasible Option
Voigt suggests that the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a España double may be a more manageable challenge due to the longer recovery period between the two races. He cites Primož Roglič’s near-miss in 2022 as an example of the feasibility of this double.
The Pogačar-Vingegaard Rivalry
Voigt acknowledges the intense rivalry between Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard, which has dominated the Tour de France in recent years. He believes that Pogačar’s desire to reclaim the Tour title may motivate him to alter his approach and potentially target the Giro-Tour double.
Conclusion: The Excitement of the Challenge
Voigt expresses his excitement at the prospect of Pogačar attempting the Giro-Tour double, believing that the Slovenian rider has the talent and determination to succeed. He also sees Geraint Thomas as a potential contender in both races, albeit in different roles. The 2024 season promises to be captivating as these riders push the limits of human endurance and skill in cycling’s most prestigious events.