French pundit argues Pedersen is reaching level of Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel

French pundit argues Pedersen is reaching level of Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel

In a bold claim that’s igniting debate across the cycling world, a prominent French pundit has argued that Mads Pedersen is beginning to reach the same elite tier as Tadej Pogačar and Mathieu van der Poel—a statement that, while provocative, reflects the Dane’s exceptional consistency and versatility in recent seasons.

Speaking on a national broadcast following Pedersen’s explosive performance at the Giro d’Italia, the pundit highlighted the Lidl–Trek rider’s evolution from a classics contender into an all-round force capable of competing—and winning—across terrain and tours once reserved for cycling’s most dominant figures.

“Pedersen is no longer just a powerful sprinter or a one-day racer,” the pundit said. “He’s winning in the mountains, surviving grueling stages, and tactically outmaneuvering pure climbers and punchers. His engine is extraordinary, and his form rivals what we’ve seen from Pogacar and Van der Poel in terms of consistency.”

Pedersen’s 2025 season has been one of steady brilliance. A stage winner at the Giro, a constant threat in the Spring Classics, and a regular fixture at the front of breakaways and bunch sprints alike, his versatility mirrors the complete-rider profile that has made Pogačar and Van der Poel generational talents. Unlike some of his peers, Pedersen combines brute strength with race intelligence—often reading scenarios perfectly and making decisive moves when others hesitate.

While Pogačar continues to redefine Grand Tour dominance and Van der Poel dazzles with cyclocross flair and monument-winning brilliance, Pedersen has quietly built a résumé that now demands recognition at the very highest level. He may lack the explosive showmanship of his rivals, but his results are speaking louder each month.

Skeptics argue that Pedersen still lacks a major monument win to fully justify comparisons with Pogačar or Van der Poel, but supporters counter that his ability to deliver top-tier performances across WorldTour events—and in vastly different race conditions—is a mark of rare class.

As the Tour de France nears, the question now becomes whether Pedersen can elevate once again and deliver a defining moment on cycling’s grandest stage. If he does, the conversation around his status in the sport may shift from speculation to confirmation.