Pogačar Dominates Strade Bianche, While Paul Seixas Signals a Latest Era

Siena, Italy – Tadej Pogačar secured a record fourth title at Strade Bianche on March 8, 2026, further cementing his dominance in the early cycling season. However, the race also served as a compelling debut for 19-year-classic Paul Seixas, who finished second and demonstrated the potential to challenge Pogačar’s reign. The 20th edition of the race, known for its challenging gravel sectors, saw Pogačar solo to victory, while Seixas’ performance ignited excitement about the future of cycling.

Pogačar’s Unmatched Power

UAE Emirates controlled the race from the outset, setting a blistering pace that fractured the peloton on the Monte Sante Marie gravel sector, approximately 84km from the finish. Pogačar launched his decisive attack on this climb, unleashing a surge of power that few could match. He completed the sector nearly a minute faster than his 2025 time.

Data from the race revealed the sheer magnitude of Pogačar’s effort. During his attack, he sustained an average power output of 600 watts (9.2 watts per kilogram) for a minute and a half while seated – a feat rarely seen on the demanding gravel terrain. Outside Online reports this demonstrates Pogačar’s unique combination of sustained power and explosiveness.

Pogačar’s overall race performance was equally impressive, averaging 380 watts (5.8 w/kg) for nearly two hours. This included navigating the punchy climbs and technical descents characteristic of Strade Bianche. His Normalized Power (NP) likely exceeded 400w, considering the variations in effort throughout the race.

Seixas Emerges as a Contender

While Pogačar’s victory wasn’t a surprise, the emergence of Paul Seixas as a legitimate challenger was the defining narrative of the race. Despite being a debutant at Strade Bianche, the 19-year-old climber and all-rounder stayed remarkably close to Pogačar’s wheel during the pivotal attack on Monte Sante Marie. The New York Times highlighted Seixas’ performance as justifying the hype surrounding the young rider.

Seixas, weighing under 65kg, is known for his climbing and time-trialing abilities, making him a promising Grand Tour contender. Throughout the race, he demonstrated composure and tactical awareness, consistently staying near the front and making strategic attacks. After nearly two hours of racing, Seixas separated himself from the chase group, ultimately dropping Isaac del Toro on the final climb to secure second place.

Seixas’ average power output for the finale was 330 watts (5.2 w/kg), and his Normalized Power was likely close to 400w for two hours, showcasing his impressive endurance and tactical acumen.

Race Dynamics and Key Moments

The early stages of the race saw a steady pace set by the peloton as they navigated the initial gravel sectors. Gianni Vermeersch, who would finish 5th, was among the key riders present in the leading group. Outside Online noted his Normalized Power (NP) reached 327w before the decisive Monte Sante Marie sector.

Following Pogačar’s attack, a chase group formed, including Seixas, del Toro, Tom Pidcock, and Matteo Jorgenson. Despite their efforts, Pogačar maintained a significant lead for much of the race, extending his advantage to nearly two minutes at one point. However, Seixas’ relentless pursuit and strategic attacks ultimately secured him the runner-up position.

Looking Ahead

Tadej Pogačar’s victory at Strade Bianche reaffirms his status as one of the world’s premier cyclists. However, the race also signaled the arrival of a potential challenger in Paul Seixas. Seixas’ impressive performance suggests he could be a key rival to Pogačar and other top contenders like Jonas Vingegaard in upcoming Grand Tours. The cycling world will be watching closely to see how Seixas develops and whether he can truly challenge Pogačar’s dominance.

Escape Collective summarized the day perfectly: Pogačar is stronger than ever, but Seixas is breathing down his neck.