In 2023, Slovenian Tadej Pogacar, a member of the UAE Emirates team, achieved an impressive seventeen victories. One of these victories include his third consecutive win at the Tour of Lombardy in Bergamo. Despite facing difficulties in the final 30-kilometer stretch of the race, particularly on the descent of Passo du Ganda, Pogacar managed to secure his win.
Pogacar, who had already secured a win at the Tour of Flanders in April and is a two-time winner of the Tour de France, added another feather to his cap with his second Monument of the season. In an impressive finish, he crossed the line ahead of Italian Andrea Bagioli and fellow Slovenian Primoz Roglic.
The Slovenian racer stood out during the climb of Passo du Ganda, where he pushed competitors Remco Evenepoel and Roglic to their limits. Despite taking risks on the descent of the pass, which resulted in him dropping everyone off, Pogacar held on. His determination was evident as he battled potential cramps, hitting his right thigh, and continued to lead despite viewers believing his pursuers were closing in.
Pogacar continued to lead the race, maintaining his minute lead until the finish line. Upon reaching the top of Colle Aperto, three kilometers from the finish line, Pogacar held his lead. In a photo finish, it was Andrea Bagioli who secured the second place, finishing ahead of Roglic, who was participating in his final race for Jumbo-Visma.
The race also marked the end of an era for Thibaut Pinot, who announced his retirement. The Franc-Comtois racer received a heartfelt tribute from his fans at the Italian Pinot bend, which was renamed “Curva Pinot” in his honor.
