All eyes turn to Mathieu Van Der Poel at shortened Milan-San Remo

Dutchman aims to defend his title as he makes his season debut at the shortened – but still very, very long – race?

Mathieu Van Der Poel wins the 2023 Milan-San Remo
(Image credit: Getty Images / Marco Bertorello)

Milan-San Remo begins in Pavia for the first time this year, as the race is not allowed in Milan itself any more, but it is still the longest Monument, the same gruelling 288 kilometres leading into the Via Roma in San Remo after the ascents of the Cipressa followed by the Poggio, the race’s final climb. 

Judging by Tadej Pogačar’s form and bravery at Strade Bianche earlier in March, it might be an atypical edition, with attacks from far out traditionally failing. However, if the Slovenian is on form, tradition could be turned on its head. 

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