Strade Bianche on the horizon but Milan-San Remo on the mind – Tadej Pogačar sets unofficial Strava record on the Cipressa

Tadej Pogačar, fresh from his commanding Strade Bianche victory, has reportedly set an unofficial Strava record on the Cipressa climb, a pivotal section of Milan-San Remo. While the precise time hasn't been officially verified by race organisers, the UAE Team Emirates leader's segment time suggests a blistering pace, significantly faster than previous benchmarks, during what was presumably a reconnaissance ride ahead of La Classicissima.

This Strava record, unofficial as it may be, provides a potent psychological marker for Pogačar and his rivals. Coming off a dominant 81km solo effort in Tuscany, it underscores his exceptional early-season form and his meticulous preparation for Milan-San Remo, a Monument he's yet to conquer. The Cipressa, often a launchpad for attacks or a crucial sorting-out climb before the Poggio, being tackled at such speed by the Slovenian signals his intent to dictate terms from afar, rather than waiting for the final kilometre.

Ultimately, Strava records are just numbers until race day. But Pogačar's message is clear: he's not just in form; he's coming for the Poggio, and he's not waiting for anyone.