Tadej Pogacar has once again etched his name into cycling lore, securing a record-equaling fifth Tour of Lombardy title, culminating a season of unparalleled dominance that places him firmly in the pantheon of legends like Fausto Coppi and Eddy Merckx.
In a display of sheer power and strategic brilliance, Tadej Pogacar crossed the finish line first at the Tour of Lombardy in Bergamo, Italy, raising an open hand to signify his record-equaling fifth victory in the prestigious Italian classic. This monumental win on Saturday, October 11, 2025, not only added another major title to his burgeoning career but also brought his remarkable 2025 season to a triumphant close, etching his name alongside the sport’s greatest.
A Historic Milestone: Equalling Fausto Coppi
The Slovenian cycling phenomenon’s fifth Tour of Lombardy title places him in exclusive company, matching the legendary Italian cyclist Fausto Coppi’s record of five wins in the event. While Coppi achieved his victories in 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949, and 1954, Pogacar’s achievement is particularly striking for its consecutive nature, underscoring his unprecedented current dominance in the sport.
The 241-kilometer (150-mile) race, known for its demanding six climbs, saw Pogacar complete the course in an impressive 5 hours and 45 minutes. His closest competitor, Remco Evenepoel, finished 1 minute, 48 seconds behind, with Michael Storer securing third place more than three minutes later. This performance was a testament to his exceptional form throughout the year.
The Unstoppable Season of 2025
This latest victory caps what Pogacar himself described as his “best season so far,” a statement he has remarkably made for seven consecutive years. The 2025 season has been nothing short of extraordinary for the UAE Emirates rider, highlighted by several major achievements:
- A fourth Tour de France title, solidifying his status as a Grand Tour powerhouse. Fans often discuss his consistent ability to perform at the highest level in multi-stage races, a rare feat in modern cycling. For more on his Tour de France successes, you can refer to insights from Cyclingnews.com.
- A successful defense of his World Road Race crown, demonstrating his versatility and strength across different racing formats.
- Victories in three of cycling’s five prestigious one-day “Monument” races: the Tour de Flanders, Liege-Bastogne-Liege, and now the Tour of Lombardy.
This “Monument hat-trick” is a truly rare accomplishment, putting Pogacar in the same league as the legendary Eddy Merckx, who last achieved this feat in 1969, 1971, 1972, and 1975. The Monuments are considered the most important one-day races in professional road cycling, requiring a unique blend of endurance, skill, and tactical acumen. Understanding the historical significance of these races helps put Pogacar’s achievement into perspective; Eurosport provides a detailed explanation of the Monuments of cycling.
The Fan Community Weighs In: GOAT Status and Future Expectations
For dedicated cycling fans, Pogacar’s consistent string of “best seasons” and his ability to dominate across different race types ignites fervent debate about his place in history. Many are already hailing him as a contender for the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) title, a discussion previously reserved for icons like Merckx. His consecutive Tour of Lombardy wins showcase not just physical prowess but also incredible mental fortitude and consistency—qualities that resonate deeply within the fan community.
The comparisons to Fausto Coppi and Eddy Merckx are not merely statistical; they speak to the impact Pogacar is having on the sport. He’s not just winning; he’s redefining what’s possible, much like these legends did in their eras. The excitement among fans is palpable, with many speculating on how many more Grand Tour and Monument titles he can accumulate and which records he might shatter next.
The Road Ahead: What This Means for Pogacar’s Legacy
This fifth Tour of Lombardy title is more than just another trophy; it’s a powerful statement of enduring class and generational talent. Pogacar’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level in both Grand Tours and one-day Monuments sets him apart from most of his contemporaries. His consecutive victories in the “Race of the Falling Leaves” show a deep affinity for the event, reminiscent of Coppi’s love for the Italian classics.
As he continues to build on his impressive resume, the cycling world eagerly anticipates how many more records Tadej Pogacar will break and what new heights he will reach. His 2025 season will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most dominant individual performances in recent cycling history, a season where he truly cemented his legacy among the sport’s immortals.
