S14 Ep28: Arrivée: Liège-Bastogne-Liège (Men)

The Cycling Podcast's S14 Ep28 covers the dramatic conclusion of the 2026 spring classics season with a detailed analysis of the Liège-Bastogne-Liège men's race. The episode opens with hosts Daniel Friebe and Lionel Burney reflecting on the race's unusual start, where a massive early breakaway of 52 riders—including Remco Evenepoel and his Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe teammate Nico Dens—split the peloton, leaving Tadej Pogacar and the main group unaware for the first 20 minutes. Despite the chaos, Pogacar and his UAE Team Emirates teammates remained composed, allowing the break to go clear while maintaining control. The race unfolded with Pogacar launching a decisive attack on La Redoute, followed by a stunning duel with 19-year-old French sensation Paul Sextas, who matched Pogacar’s pace and pushed him to the limit. Pogacar ultimately won by 45 seconds, securing his third Liège-Bastogne-Liège title and extending his monument tally to 13. Evenepoel, despite a strong effort, finished third, marking a disappointing end to what had been a promising spring campaign. The hosts reflect on Evenepoel’s lack of team support, his tactical missteps, and the emergence of Sextas as a new generation star. The episode also touches on the emotional tribute Pogacar paid to his late teammate Christian Muñoz, who died from complications after a minor crash. The hosts conclude with anticipation for the upcoming Tour de Romandie and the Giro d’Italia, setting the stage for a pivotal summer of cycling.