Lance Armstrong in his podcast, THE MOVE expressed yet again another controversial opinion about Pogačar’s string of victories. “What we saw here is the biggest mistake of his entire career, it’s just a political campaign

 

Tadej Pogačar’s remarkable fourth stage win at Isola 2000 in the 2024 Tour de France has stirred considerable debate within the cycling world.

The Slovenian rider’s dominant performance has drawn praise from many quarters, but it has also attracted sharp criticism from unexpected sources, including former Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong.

On his podcast *The Move*, Armstrong expressed a controversial opinion about Pogačar’s string of victories. “What we saw here is the biggest mistake of his entire career.

I promise you that,” Armstrong declared. The American ex-cyclist argued that Pogačar’s decision to secure multiple

stage wins could have unintended consequences for the Slovenian’s overall campaign.

Armstrong’s critique focused on the broader implications of Pogačar’s success. “The other teams don’t like this, the fans…,” he said, highlighting that while Pogačar’s achievements might be celebrated in Slovenia, they could potentially foster resentment among rival cyclists and their supporters.

He specifically mentioned notable competitors such as Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel and Denmark’s Jonas Vingegaard, emphasizing the high stakes of the competition and the potential political ramifications.

Armstrong further elaborated on his concerns, suggesting that the cycling world is not only about racing but also about managing public perception and team dynamics. “Don’t give people a reason to hate you,” Armstrong warned, advocating for a strategic approach that balances winning with maintaining favorable public and competitor relations. He noted that while racing is inherently competitive, it also involves elements of politics and image management.

Despite his criticism, Armstrong clarified his stance later in the podcast. “I am really a fan of Tadej Pogačar,” he admitted. “As a fan and supporter I said: don’t do this, don’t do this. I wanted the best for him.”

Armstrong reflected on his own experiences, comparing Pogačar’s situation to his own decision to let Marco Pantani win a stage on Mont Ventoux, a choice that was not without its own emotional and competitive costs.

Armstrong’s commentary underscores a broader discussion about the balance between aggressive racing tactics and strategic prudence.

While Pogačar’s impressive performance is a testament to his skill and determination, Armstrong’s perspective invites a deeper consideration of the multifaceted nature of competitive cycling, where every victory carries potential strategic and perceptual consequences.

As the Tour de France progresses towards its finale in Nice, Pogačar’s ability to navigate these complexities and secure a final victory will be closely watched.

Armstrong’s remarks serve as a reminder of the intricate interplay between sporting achievement and its broader impact on the cycling world.