Pogačar Defends World Title With Solo Masterclass in Rwanda

For the second year running, Slovenia’s Tadej Pogačar has claimed the UCI Road World Championships Road Race, delivering another devastating long-range attack to secure cycling’s most prestigious jersey.

The 27-year-old launched his decisive move with 66km to go in Kigali, Rwanda, and was never caught. He crossed the line alone, finishing 1:28 ahead of Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel and more than two minutes clear of Ireland’s Ben Healy, who completed the podium.

The victory means Pogačar, riding for UAE Team Emirates-XRG, will keep the rainbow stripes for another season and now boasts 105 career wins. He also becomes the first rider in history to win the Tour de France / Rainbow Jersey double twice in consecutive seasons.

The best-placed Australian rider was Jai Hindley, who finished 16th on the arduous 267-kilometre Kigali circuit, which involved 5,475 metres of climbing.

Pogacar with fellow 2025 World Championship podium placers Remco Evenepoel and Ben Healy and ‘The Pog’ describes the challenging 267km Rwandan course that included 5,475m of elevation. Images courtesy of Velon CC.

Dominant Display in Kigali

The 2025 edition of the race unfolded on a demanding finishing circuit that combined sharp climbs, cobbled sections, and fervent local crowds. Pogačar first put pressure on the peloton with more than 100km to race, breaking clear alongside teammates Isaac del Toro and Juan Ayuso.

The trio’s move underlined UAE’s dominance, but attrition soon took its toll: Ayuso slipped back on the cobbles, while Del Toro, who was suffering stomach issues, eventually cracked under Pogačar’s relentless pace. Alone at the front, the defending champion built a lead that steadily grew, leaving rivals to fight for the minor medals.

Post-Race Reaction

Speaking after his second rainbow-jersey triumph, Pogačar admitted the course was tailored to aggressive racing.

“I was hoping a small group would go clear, like with Juan and Del Toro. It felt like a dream to ride together for so long. But I was left solo quite early—just like last year—fighting with myself,” he said.

“The climbs got harder every lap, and even the downhills demanded effort. In the final laps you start to doubt, but you just push through. It was an incredible experience, and a successful week in Rwanda.”