The Belgian cobbles have spoken once again. If you spent your Sunday glued to the screens watching the Tour of Flanders, you know we just witnessed an absolute masterclass in suffering. While we were spinning the legs out on our weekend virtual routes, the pro peloton was being torn to shreds on the Oude Kwaremont.

Here is what’s going on in the cycling world this week and how to channel that energy into your next ride.

1. The Pogačar Power Play

Tadej Pogačar doesn’t just win races; he breaks spirits. His move on the Oude Kwaremont to drop Mathieu van der Poel and ride solo to his third Flanders victory was the definition of pure w/kg dominance.

For the Muckers, it’s the ultimate inspiration for our Sunday Hill Climbs. When the gradient kicks up to 10% and your legs are screaming, channel that inner Pogačar. Just try to avoid imitating his other move of the weekend—slipping through a red light at a railway crossing! The organizers are handing out fines, proving that even the World Champion has to follow the rules of the road.

2. Demi Vollering’s Solo Masterpiece

The women’s race was equally brutal. Demi Vollering proved that patience and timing are everything. She waited for the perfect moment in the final 20km to launch a solo attack over the Koppenberg that no one could answer. If you are lining up for a Thursday Race Night this week, remember Vollering’s tactics: hide in the draft, save your matches, and when you finally decide to go, make sure nobody can catch your wheel.

3. The Kids Are Alright

If you needed a reminder that the next generation is terrifyingly fast, look no further than today’s opening stage of the Itzulia Basque Country. A 19-year-old French rider named Paul Seixas just destroyed a time trial field containing Primož Roglič, putting almost 30 seconds into the veterans over a mere 13.9km.

It’s always brilliant seeing a fresh face tear up the established order. We see it all the time in our own community when a new rider joins the Discord, hops into their first Rouvy race, and suddenly drops a massive watts-per-kilo bomb on the regulars. Keep welcoming the newcomers, even if they do make our legs hurt!

4. Brace for the Hell of the North

Next Sunday is the big one: Paris-Roubaix. Pogačar is hunting for his fourth consecutive Monument victory to try and complete the historic sweep of all five. Get your indoor trainers set up, grab a coffee, and get ready for the most chaotic, bone-rattling race of the year.

Mucker’s Takeaway:

Whether you are attacking steep gradients, timing a sprint finish, or just surviving the week, keep that grit alive. See you on the start line!