Tadej Pogacar of Team UAE Emirates sealed a monumental victory at the Giro d’Italia on Sunday in Rome, capturing the title with the largest winning margin in nearly six decades.
The 25-year-old Slovenian phenom dominated the grueling 3,400-kilometer tour, which began in Turin on May 4. Pogacar clinched six of the 21 stages, showcasing his prowess across diverse terrains—from towering peaks to rolling plains.
His final lead was an astounding nine minutes and 56 seconds ahead of Colombia’s Daniel Martinez of Bora. Britain’s Geraint Thomas of Ineos rounded out the podium, finishing ten minutes and 24 seconds behind the champion.
The race concluded with the 21st stage around Rome, won by Belgian sprinter Tim Merlier, who celebrated his third stage win of the 2024 Giro.
Billed as a champion in waiting, Pogacar lived up to the hype and more. His margin of victory is the largest at any of cycling’s Grand Tours since Vittorio Adorni won the Giro by 11 minutes and 26 seconds in 1965.
“I felt strong and relaxed these three weeks,” Pogacar reflected after his triumph. “It has been a wonderful experience. I loved it.”
As the cycling world celebrates this historic feat, Pogacar plans to savor his victory with his teammates in Rome before taking some well-deserved rest by the sea.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
