Every year the Cipressa looms as a potential launchpad, and every year it fizzles into nothing. But with Tadej Pogačar on the start line—and hinting that anything is possible—could this be the year a bold move from far out actually works?

"I'm really looking forward to start tomorrow and we are ready to fight for the victory," Pogačar said Friday, his tone more focused than flashy. After a brief recovery earlier in the week, the UAE Team Emirates leader spent days motor-pacing and testing his legs on the key climbs. “The more trainings on the parcours, the better,” he added, underscoring his attention to detail.

When pressed on whether he's finally figured out how to win this elusive Monument, he smiled. “I think once I win this race, we can call it that I cracked it—but until then, I will try to find the recipe.”

As for a Cipressa attack? “It’s possible. Everything is possible. But if it’s a good idea—I don’t know.”

Tom Pidcock Milano-Sanremo 2025 Aim

Tom Pidcock has been close—but never quite there. After a string of podiums this spring, he’s hoping today breaks that pattern.

“The consistency I’ve had—I can be really happy with,” he said. “Hopefully we can change that tomorrow.”

He’s been training on the route all week and knows there’s no margin for error. “I can't say now how to do it. The closer you get to the finish, every decision you make can take you out of the race. You only have one shot, really, to win.”

There’s a growing sense of momentum around the Ineos Grenadiers rider. “Everyone is kind of feeling the energy I have and the way I'm racing. It's really nice, actually. It definitely gives an extra push when I go into races.”

Van der Poel Keeps It Simple

Defending champion Mathieu van der Poel isn’t overthinking it. “We try to make a bit the same approach as two years ago,” he said. “You need the best legs possible to win this race—it’s a very difficult race to win.”

Teamwork with Jasper Philipsen will again be key. “We are quite open in communication. Last year we decided in the moment. Jasper and I both have good communication and we’re honest about the legs when it matters.”

As for whether other teams will try to rip it apart early? “Last year they also had the plan, but it’s not that easy, of course. We’ll see—it’s up to us to try and follow.”