Pogacar still has a long way to go to match Merckx’s palmares” – Johan Museeuw compares the two cycling stars

Pogacar still has a long way to go to match Merckx’s palmares” – Johan Museeuw compares the two cycling stars

**“Pogačar Still Has a Long Way to Go to Match Merckx’s Palmares” — Johan Museeuw Compares Two Cycling Legends**

Cycling icon Johan Museeuw recently weighed in on the ongoing debate about where modern great Tadej Pogačar stands in relation to the legendary Eddy Merckx, offering a candid assessment that highlights the magnitude of Merckx’s career achievements and the challenges that lie ahead for the young Slovenian star.

Museeuw, himself a three-time Paris-Roubaix winner and one of Belgium’s most respected riders, praised Pogačar’s extraordinary talent and early successes but cautioned that the comparison to Merckx remains premature. “Pogačar is undeniably one of the most gifted riders of his generation,” Museeuw said. “His wins at the Tour de France and his versatility across different types of races are impressive. But Eddy Merckx’s palmares—his list of career victories—is on a completely different level.”

Merckx, known as “The Cannibal” for his relentless competitiveness, amassed a staggering 525 career wins, including five Tour de France titles, five Giro d’Italia victories, and a record seven Milan–San Remo wins. His dominance across classics, grand tours, and one-day races set a benchmark that has yet to be surpassed.

Museeuw emphasized that while Pogačar’s trajectory is promising, consistency over many years and success across a wide range of events will be necessary to truly approach Merckx’s legacy. “It’s not just about winning big races; it’s about sustaining that level year after year and conquering all facets of the sport. Merckx was a once-in-a-century athlete,” he added.

The Belgian legend also highlighted the evolution of cycling, noting that today’s riders face different challenges, including specialized teams, advanced technology, and an increasingly global competitive field. “Comparisons are always tricky, but they help us appreciate the greats from different eras,” Museeuw said.

Pogačar, at just 26 years old, has already secured two Tour de France titles and several other prestigious wins, sparking debates among fans and analysts about his place in cycling history. As he continues to compete at the highest level, many are eager to see if he can build on his early promise and carve out a palmares that rivals the sport’s all-time legends.

For now, Museeuw’s perspective offers a measured reminder of just how monumental Merckx’s achievements remain—and the high bar Pogačar must clear to enter the same conversation.