Lanterne Rouge Cycling Podcast Men Elite World Championship Road Race 2025
Sep 28, 2025
The hosts delve into the challenging Rwanda circuit, highlighting its tough climbs and strategic early attacks. Pogacar's tactical moves on Mont Kigali spark discussions on rider dynamics and team strategies. The drama intensifies with Remco's saddle issue and bike changes amid the race. As Pogacar claims a dominant solo victory, the hosts debate whether his win reflects true merit or just highlights cycle dominance. They also touch on notable performances beyond the podium and explore how the race impacted local riders in Rwanda.
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Brutal Circuit Made The Race Decisive Early
- The Rwanda course was extremely attritional with repeated short steep climbs and cobbled sections that made it decisive from the start.
- Starting the local lap at km0 forced big nations and strong riders into early action and smaller pelotons on the circuit.
Early Breakaway And Surprise Abandonments
- Benji described the breakaway composition and early abandonments like Alaphilippe and Louis Barré that shuffled the race.
- Patrick noted surprise that big nations' riders filled the break instead of local Rwandan riders getting TV time.
Team Choices Dictated Mid-Race Dynamics
- National team choices to control or commit riders to the break shaped the later chances dramatically.
- Belgium and USA tactics (controlling vs committing) created different pressure points going into the key climbs.