Defending champion Jonas Vingegaard has denied Tadej Pogacar’s claim that he was “scared” during their intense stage 9 gravel roads battle at the Tour de France. The Visma rider defended his tactical approach, suggesting that Pogacar may have misunderstood his strategy. Vingegaard and Pogacar, along with newcomer Remco Evenepoel, are currently locked in a tight race for the 2024 Tour title, with just over a minute separating the top two riders. Vingegaard, known for his classic old school tactics, is focused on carefully conserving time while waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike, a strategy that has led him to victory in the past two Tours.
In contrast, Pogacar is known for his aggressive and relentless attacking style, constantly pushing the limits of speed. During the 2023 Tour, Vingegaard strategically followed Pogacar before making a decisive move in the later stages, ultimately winning the race by a significant margin. Despite suffering injuries earlier in the year, Vingegaard is steadily making his way back to form and remains determined to defend his title. The Danish rider acknowledges the impact of the crash on his perspective, emphasizing his gratitude for being alive and enjoying the opportunity to compete without the pressure to win.
Vingegaard’s cautious approach reflects his experience and success in previous Tours, where he carefully navigated each stage with an eye on the ultimate goal. As he continues to battle Pogacar and other top contenders, Vingegaard remains focused on racing day by day and ultimately aiming for victory. While acknowledging the challenges ahead and the fierce competition, Vingegaard’s determination and resilience make him a formidable contender for a potential hat-trick of Tour de France wins. Despite the pressure and expectations, Vingegaard’s primary focus remains on the race itself and the pursuit of his ultimate goal.
