Tadej Pogačar loses key Milan-San Remo domestique to early crash

Jan Christen, a critical domestique for Tadej Pogačar at Milan-San Remo, unfortunately crashed out of the race after approximately 55 kilometres. The 19-year-old UAE Team Emirates rider, making his Monument debut, was forced to abandon following the incident, leaving Pogačar with one fewer support rider earlier than anticipated in the 288km classic. This early setback undoubtedly alters UAE's strategic options for the latter stages of La Primavera.

This incident significantly impacts UAE Team Emirates' strategy for the first Monument of the season. Christen, while young, was earmarked as a powerful engine for the early and middle sections, tasked with controlling the pace and protecting Pogačar before the decisive Poggio. His absence places added pressure on the remaining UAE teammates, who will now need to cover more ground and expend energy earlier, potentially compromising their ability to support Pogačar effectively when the race truly ignites.

Losing a key lieutenant so early in a Monument is never ideal, particularly for a leader like Pogačar who thrives on a well-drilled team. One can only hope the remaining UAE riders have enough in the tank, or that Pogačar's legs are simply otherworldly.