Tadej Pogacar Addresses Doping Concerns in Cycling
Tadej Pogacar, the prominent Slovenian cyclist and current world champion, recently spoke out about the ongoing doping controversies that have shadowed the sport of cycling. In a press conference held on the eve of the Giro di Lombardia, Pogacar emphasized that modern cycling is suffering from the stigma of its past, where doping was rampant. He stated, "Cycling is a victim of its past when riders did everything to be better, even if it meant risking their health and their lives." This statement reflects the broader issues within the sport, where past scandals continue to cast doubt on current athletes.
Pogacar, who is on the verge of achieving his 25th victory of the year, acknowledged the jealousy and suspicion that often accompany success in sports. He pointed out that domination in any field, including cycling, is temporary and usually gives way to new talents. He argued that the sport suffers from a lack of trust, largely due to historical doping incidents, mentioning that even lesser-known riders face health issues stemming from past doping practices. His remarks highlight the need for a cultural shift within cycling to restore public confidence in the sport.
In a related discussion, Christian Prudhomme, the director of the Tour de France, commented on the legitimacy of questioning Pogacar’s performances given the sport's troubled history. He noted that while he finds Pogacar’s achievements impressive, the shadow of doping in cycling makes such inquiries understandable. Prudhomme stated, "Your question is not illegitimate," acknowledging the ongoing challenges in fully eradicating doping from the sport.
As Pogacar prepares for the Giro di Lombardia, he remains focused on his performance and aims to secure his fourth consecutive victory in this prestigious race. He expressed pride in being compared to legendary cyclists like Eddy Merckx, yet he remains committed to carving out his own legacy without dwelling on the past. Pogacar concluded that risking one's health for fleeting success in cycling is not worth it, reinforcing his stance against doping and advocating for a cleaner sport.
