Tadej Pogačar achieved a historic milestone on September 29, 2024, by winning the men's road race at the World Championships in Zurich. This victory marks him as the first male cyclist in 37 years to secure the rainbow jersey, the Tour de France, and the Giro d'Italia in the same year, completing what is known as the "Triple Crown" of cycling.
Pogačar's performance was remarkable, as he attacked with over 100 kilometers remaining, showcasing his dominance throughout the race. His final time placed him 34 seconds ahead of silver medalist Ben O'Connor of Australia, with Dutch rider Mathieu van der Poel finishing third. This victory solidifies Pogačar's reputation as a generational talent capable of excelling across various race formats.
Despite the triumph, the event was overshadowed by the tragic death of 18-year-old Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer during the junior road race earlier that day. Pogačar expressed his condolences, highlighting the dangers inherent in cycling and the need for increased safety measures within the sport.
As Pogačar celebrated his monumental achievement, he reflected on the pressures he faced throughout the season and the fulfillment of his childhood dreams. His team's strategic execution, particularly the support from fellow cyclist Pavel Sivakov, was crucial in maintaining his lead and securing the victory.