**They Should Try for It: Eddy Merckx Advocates for Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel to Pursue the Hour Record**
In the storied history of professional cycling, few names resonate as profoundly as Eddy Merckx. The Belgian legend, often regarded as the greatest cyclist of all time, has left an indelible mark on the sport through his astonishing achievements and relentless pursuit of excellence. As a pioneer and a symbol of endurance, Merckx’s voice continues to carry weight within the cycling community. Recently, he has voiced a compelling argument: that both Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel should aim to set their sights on the Hour Record.
This call to action is not merely a nostalgic nod to the past but a genuine belief rooted in the values and aspirations that define a cyclist’s career. Merckx’s comments have sparked widespread discussion, prompting fans, pundits, and the athletes themselves to contemplate the significance of the Hour Record in contemporary cycling and whether Pogačar and Evenepoel possess the potential and the desire to add this prestigious achievement to their palmarès.
The Legacy of the Hour Record
Before delving into Merckx’s perspective and the arguments for Pogačar and Evenepoel to attempt the Hour Record, it’s important to understand what the record entails. The Hour Record is a cycling challenge that measures the furthest distance ridden in one hour on a velodrome track. It’s a test of endurance, speed, and mental fortitude, demanding not only exceptional athleticism but also meticulous preparation and technical mastery.
Historically, the Hour Record has been held by some of the sport’s most iconic figures, including Merckx himself, who set the record in 1972 with a distance of 49.431 km. Since then, the record has evolved through technological advances, doping controversies, and shifting attitudes towards the discipline. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most revered benchmarks in cycling, symbolizing the pinnacle of individual effort and endurance.
Eddy Merckx’s Perspective: A Personal and Philosophical Reflection
Eddy Merckx’s advocacy for Pogačar and Evenepoel to pursue the Hour Record stems from deep personal conviction and a philosophical understanding of what it signifies for a cyclist’s career. Merckx has often spoken about the importance of pushing boundaries and seeking challenges that define the sport’s true spirit.
In recent interviews and public statements, Merckx emphasized that “my own career would not have been complete without the Hour,” suggesting that the attempt to conquer this record was a defining moment in his journey as an athlete. For Merckx, the Hour Record was more than a statistic; it was a symbol of human potential, a testament to perseverance, and a personal quest that embodied the very essence of cycling.
He argues that pursuing the Hour Record offers current and future cyclists an opportunity to connect with the sport’s heritage and to push their physical and mental limits. “Cyclists like Pogačar and Evenepoel have the talent, the intelligence, and the drive,” Merckx asserts. “They should try for it—not just for the record itself but for what it represents: the relentless pursuit of greatness.”
Why Pogačar and Evenepoel?
Both Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel are exceptional talents emerging from the current generation of cyclists. Their rapid ascent, remarkable versatility, and capacity for extraordinary performances make them prime candidates to attempt the Hour Record.
**Tadej Pogačar** has already cemented his status as one of the sport’s most formidable climbers and stage racers. With two Tour de France victories (2020 and 2021) and numerous other stage wins and classifications, Pogačar’s race craft combines endurance, tactical intelligence, and raw power. While primarily known for his climbing and time-trial abilities, his physical attributes — including a powerful engine and exceptional aerobic capacity — suggest he could be a strong contender on the track as well.
**Remco Evenepoel**, on the other hand, is a prodigy with a rising trajectory that has already seen him winning time-trial stages and establishing himself as a versatile rider capable of excelling across disciplines. His remarkable power-to-weight ratio and technical skills make him especially suited for the demands of the Hour Record. Given his age and current form, an attempt could be both a challenge and an opportunity to etch his name into cycling history.
Merckx sees in both riders the qualities necessary to succeed in this demanding pursuit. “They are young, talented, and ambitious. Their careers are still developing, and the Hour Record could be a perfect milestone—something to inspire their future aspirations,” he explains. “It’s an adventure that tests everything a cyclist has—strength, strategy, mental resilience—and I believe both of them are capable of rising to that challenge.”
The Challenges and Considerations
Encouraging Pogačar and Evenepoel to attempt the Hour Record is one thing, but the endeavor itself is fraught with complexity. The record requires years of specialized training, a dedicated focus on track cycling, and meticulous attention to technological and aerodynamic details.
One challenge is the transition from road racing to the velodrome environment. While both riders are excellent time trialists, the specifics of pacing, technical setup, and mental preparation differ significantly from their usual race formats. Moreover, the record’s history has shown that even small advancements in bike design and aerodynamics can make a substantial difference in performance.
Additionally, the pursuit of the Hour Record can be physically taxing and carries inherent risks. Riders must balance the intensity of training with their overall health and career goals. For many, the desire to preserve their long-term competitiveness on the road must be weighed against the potential gains and prestige of the record attempt.
Merckx acknowledges these challenges but remains optimistic. “Anything worthwhile comes with risks and sacrifices,” he notes. “But the rewards—personal achievement, historical legacy, and inspiring future generations—are well worth it.”
The Cultural and Inspirational Significance
Beyond individual accomplishment, Merckx emphasizes the cultural and inspirational value of attempting the Hour Record. It is a celebration of human endeavor, innovation, and the indomitable spirit of athletes pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
For young riders like Pogačar and Evenepoel, chasing the Hour Record could serve as a catalyst for growth, motivation, and a deeper connection with cycling’s rich heritage. It fosters a sense of continuity, linking the legends of the past to the stars of tomorrow.
Furthermore, such attempts often generate global interest and media attention, bringing fresh energy and visibility to the sport. The Hour Record has historically been a spectacle that unites fans and inspires aspiring cyclists worldwide.
The Road Ahead
While Pogačar and Evenepoel have yet to publicly confirm their intentions regarding the Hour Record, the encouragement from a figure like Eddy Merckx underscores its significance as a potential career milestone. Whether they decide to pursue it or not, the dialogue surrounding the record highlights the enduring appeal of pushing human limits.
Cycling’s evolution continues to blend tradition with innovation. The pursuit of the Hour Record exemplifies this dynamic—a challenge rooted in history but open to new technologies and approaches. As Merckx eloquently states, “Cyclists should embrace these challenges, not shy away from them. That’s how we honor the sport and ourselves.”
Eddy Merckx’s call for Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel to attempt the Hour Record is more than a plea for individual achievement; it is a celebration of the enduring spirit of cycling. It invites the next generation of champions to step forward, to challenge themselves, and to leave their mark on the sport’s history.
As the cycling world watches with anticipation, one thing is clear: the quest for the Hour Record remains a symbol of human potential, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Whether Pogačar and Evenepoel accept the challenge or not, Merckx’s words serve as a reminder that in cycling, as in life, the greatest victories often come from daring to try.
