Is Pogacar’s Dominance Bad for Cycling?

The reason we love sports is the drama—the unpredictability, the suspense, the moments when underdogs defy the odds. But when one individual or team dominates a sport, does it start to feel dull and predictable?

- Jose Vicente 'JV' Araneta

This question becomes particularly relevant in light of the current state of professional cycling. For the past three years, one name has stood above all others: Tadej Pogačar. If his current trajectory continues unchallenged, he could very well surpass Eddy Merckx as cycling’s greatest of all time.

But cycling has a complicated relationship with its heroes. Fans often adore their idols when they’re struggling (see Raymond Poulidor) and resent them when they win too easily (see Lance Armstrong). As of now, fans still cheer for Pogačar as he aims for his fourth Tour de France title—his second consecutive. But I suspect that if his dominance continues, the tide may soon turn. Sports fans, after all, tend to support underdogs more than enduring champions.