Tom Pidcock has handiest raced Milan-San Remo two times however he went tantalisingly with regards to victory in 2024 when he attacked within the ultimate kilometre.
He was once stuck in sight of the By means of Roma end line however is again this yr, extra motivated than ever after his transfer from Ineos Grenadiers to Q36.5 Professional Biking, and reputedly in even higher shape.
The Yorkshireman bravely took on Tadej Pogačar (UAE Crew Emirates-XRG) at Strade Bianche and inspired at Tirreno-Adriatico. He turns out in a position to do it once more at Milan-San Remo.
“I can sense that people can feel the energy I have and the way I’m racing. It’s really nice, it gives you extra motivation,” Pidcock mentioned after the staff presentation on Friday in Pavia, south of Milan, the place the 289km Monument will once more get started on Saturday.
“I’m happy with the condition I have. There have been a few second places recently but hopefully we can change that at Milan-San Remo.
“It’ll be a pleasing race. It is one of the crucial highlights of the yr. I really like this race. I believe I realize it smartly even supposing I have handiest in reality ridden the general two times.”
Pidcock spent the week in San Remo, recovering from the hard, often rain-soaked racing of Tirreno-Adriatico. He trained on the Cipressa and Poggio climbs, doing some efforts, while perfecting his knowledge of the climbs and no doubt the descent, where he could make a difference.
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He knows that every moment of Milan-San Remo, every tactical choice, every extra effort and every mistake can make the difference between victory and defeat.
“Each and every determination you are making can take you out of the race. You handiest have one shot to win Milan-San Remo,” he mentioned.
“However I’ve as just right an opportunity as any person. There may be no longer one favorite, there are numerous favourites.”
Pidcock will race on instinct but perhaps follow one simple tactic.
“I’m going to stay up for an assault from Tadej…” he mentioned provocatively.
“I am certain they need to make a difficult race however what fits Tadej, fits me too. I’m hoping I will be able to get pleasure from that.
“I think UAE will race like last year but I think they have a better team. Jhonatan Narváez can play a big role, set a high pace and so set up an attack from Pogačar. Last year the pace wasn’t hard enough, this year it could be.”
Requested 3 easy questions by way of Dutch tv NOS, Pidcock made 3 easy predictions.
Who will likely be first to the highest of Poggio?
“Mathieu van der Poel,” he responded.
Who would be the first to the ground of the Poggio?
“Filippo Ganna,” he mentioned.
And who will likely be first to complete within the By means of Roma?
“Me!”
