I know everyone’s talking about this, but I just can’t get over the two attacks that MVP put in yesterday in probably the most exciting Strade Bianche I’ve seen. He had a Cancellara-in-Paris-Roubaix acceleration that had most people speechless, including the commentators on Eurosport – no small feat. Here’s a breakdown of the final van der nail in the coffin, on the Via Santa Caterina. It is really something to behold – along with the rest of the race – if you get a chance.

Right before the attack

4 seconds later…

12 seconds after the attack and right before the top of the climb.

What do you think that is? 10 meters? 15? Keep in mind, all this happened at somewhere between 12% and 16%.

A few people have made this interesting point, too (including one of you); although these two guys are definitely classics riders (although Julian can really climb, too), 3rd place was taken by Egan Bernal, a former Tour de France winner. Pogacar was also in the front group till it was blown apart on the penultimate climb (by you know who), who can do it all, but is certainly a grand tour rider. This could very well be the key that makes Strade Bianche a Monument once and for all at some point in the future, i.e. there aren’t many races where you really don’t know which kind of rider might win (Milan-sanremo could be another one).

Anyway, find a way to watch the last 50 km or so of this one if you can. You won’t be disappointed.