✨ MONACO, FR — While the world of professional cycling scrambles for technical and physiological explanations for Tadej Pogačar’s near-unanimous dominance, one of the Slovenian superstar’s closest peers believes the secret lies in something far simpler: his attitude.
Belgian sprinter Jasper Philipsen, a rider known for his own success in the Tour de France and Classics, described the reigning World Champion as “one of his closest friends in the bunch,” offering a rare glimpse into the psyche of cycling’s biggest star. For Philipsen, Pogačar’s greatness is rooted in his ability to remain a grounded, everyday person, despite the stardom that surrounds him.
The Power of Being Normal
In an interview with Gazzetta, Philipsen revealed that Pogačar’s strength is not just found in his staggering wattage numbers or tactical brilliance, but in his unwavering humility.
“I think everyone sees him as a god of this sport, even though I know him as a very normal guy,” Philipsen said. “His strength lies in the fact that despite all his success he keeps his feet on the ground and enjoys life.”
This ability to compartmentalize and maintain perspective is, according to Philipsen, the key to his relentless drive and consistency across both Grand Tours and Monuments. In a sport where pressure and intense media scrutiny can consume even the most gifted athletes, Pogačar’s simple, balanced approach shields him from the external noise.
A Friendship of Respect
The friendship between the two riders—who were briefly teammates at UAE Team Emirates early in their careers—is a notable rarity among top competitors in the intense world of professional cycling.
“Tadej is a friend, it’s always a pleasure to see him and to chat,” Philipsen confirmed, acknowledging that their differing race schedules mean they “see each other rarely during the year.”
This outside perspective carries significant weight. Philipsen’s observation suggests that Pogačar’s unpretentious personality allows him to race with a freedom and spontaneity that is difficult for rivals burdened by expectation and the constant fear of failure. It’s this joyful, almost carefree approach to competition that often makes him such a charismatic and unpredictable force in the peloton.
An Unprecedented Talent
Philipsen, while known for his focus on sprinting, also offered high praise for Pogačar’s unique place in the sport’s history, equating his multi-disciplinary dominance to something never before witnessed.
“I’m not an expert in cycling history, but I don’t think that anyone like him has ever existed,” the Belgian stated.
The sentiment reinforces the growing consensus that Pogačar, who is capable of winning major titles across every type of terrain—from the mountains of the Tour de France to the brutal cobbles of the Spring Classics—is indeed operating on a plane entirely separate from his peers. For his friend, however, that dominance will continue as long as he remains focused on enjoying the simple act of riding his bike, proving that sometimes, the biggest secret to success is simply a good attitude.