Pogacar’s Walloon Arrow Victory Sparks Doping Debate
HUY, belgium – Tadej Pogacar’s dominant victory at Wednesday’s Flèche Wallonne, his second career win in the prestigious Belgian classic, has ignited a fresh round of speculation about doping in professional cycling.Pogacar’s decisive attack on the steep slopes of the Mur de Huy,a punishing climb with gradients reaching 20%,left his rivals struggling and unable to respond.
The performance, while lauded by many, prompted retired French cyclist Lilian Calmejane to weigh in on social media. “Pogi, today, even if you put all guys to Vae, they cannot follow him. The bikes are bridled at 25, it goes to 30 seated in 20 %,” Calmejane wrote on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, adding a laughing emoji.The comment, though laced with admiration, opened the door to the ever-present question of doping in the sport. One user directly challenged Calmejane: “Well,it’s time to open your mouth and really say the terms! Doped or not? Nobody in the peloton dares to say things.”
Calmejane responded, “Superior yes! Doped, is this a matter of suspended question? Personally I don’t have the answer sorry…” He whent on to acknowledge Pogacar’s exceptional level but stopped short of making any accusations.
The debate surrounding Pogacar’s performance reflects a long-standing tension in cycling, a sport haunted by its past. Recent advancements in anti-doping technology and stricter testing protocols have aimed to clean up the sport, but suspicions linger, especially after displays of seemingly effortless dominance.
Pogacar’s notable 2025 season includes victories at the Tour des Flandres, Strade bianche, and the UAE Tour. He has also secured second-place finishes at Paris-Roubaix and the Amstel Gold Race, and a third place at Milan-San Remo.Calmejane further addressed the broader cycling landscape, saying: “Van der Poel, Wout Wan Aert, Vingegaard, Evenepoel, Roglic and others have already made his skin! Certainly it dominates but we have the right to epic battles! So yes, these guys pass the others for painters but believe me the soft belly (10th to 40th) place is an incredible level.” He also added: “”do you think anyone is asking questions?” Asking questions and putting doubts does not mean that there is a proven cheating! I do not understand the systematic shortcut in cycling with performance and doping? The other sport also evolve at the same speed or more … ”
Calmejane, who retired from professional cycling at the end of 2024, had previously expressed disillusionment with the sport’s culture. Having achieved 12 victories as a professional, he stated he didn’t “find his place more” in the World Tour peloton. In a statement marking his decision to retire, he said, “In recent years, I have been feeling cramped and less fulfilled. My results or rather my performance no longer satisfies me. my dreams were reached very early in my career and it surely served me in terms of motivation to have a more supplied track record.”
In 2023, Calmejane publicly criticized French cyclist Alex Baudin after Baudin tested positive for a banned substance at the Giro d’Italia. Calmejane commented on the incident with a reference to the infamous Festina doping scandal involving Richard Virenque stating “Unbeknownst”
While Pogacar has never been sanctioned for doping, his performances are inevitably viewed through the lens of cycling’s troubled past.
One counterargument is that advancements in training techniques, nutrition, and equipment technology have substantially improved athletic performance across all sports. It’s possible that Pogacar’s dominance is simply a result of superior genetics, dedication, and access to cutting-edge resources.
The debate surrounding Pogacar underscores the challenges facing cycling as it strives to maintain its integrity and rebuild trust with fans. while suspicions may linger, it is essential to rely on evidence-based analysis and respect the presumption of innocence.
FAQ: Doping in Cycling
What are the most common doping methods in cycling? Common doping methods include the use of erythropoietin (EPO) to increase red blood cell production, blood transfusions, growth hormones, and anabolic steroids.
How often are cyclists tested for doping? Professional cyclists are subject to frequent and unannounced drug testing throughout the year, both during competitions and in the off-season. What are the penalties for doping in cycling? Penalties for doping can range from suspensions of several years to lifetime bans, depending on the severity of the offense and the athlete’s history.
How is the U.S.involved in international anti-doping efforts in cycling? USADA works closely with international anti-doping organizations to ensure that athletes from around the world are held to the same standards. They also share information and best practices to improve the effectiveness of anti-doping programs.
* What can cycling fans do to support clean sport? Fans can support clean sport by advocating for stricter anti-doping measures, promoting ethical conduct, and supporting organizations that fight against doping in cycling.
Why do you think fans’ skepticism will always linger around cycling despite the strict testing measures?
Interview: Former Cyclist Lilian Calmejane on Pogacar’s Walloon Arrow Victory and the Doping Debate
Archyde News Editor: Welcome, Lilian. Thank you for joining us today. Tadej Pogacar’s recent victory at the Flèche Wallonne has once again stirred discussions about doping in professional cycling. As a former professional cyclist, what are your initial thoughts on his performance?
Lilian Calmejane: Merci for having me. Pogacar’s performance was undeniably impressive. The way he attacked on the Mur de Huy, with gradients exceeding 20%, was breathtaking. There’s no doubt he’s at an exceptional level of fitness. But unfortunately, in cycling, exceptional performances always lead to questions, given the sport’s history.
Navigating the Shadow of Doubt
Archyde News Editor: You’ve touched on the subject of doubt, wich is a recurring theme. Your social media comments hinted at this. Can you elaborate on the complexities of expressing these kinds of sentiments publicly?
Lilian Calmejane: That’s it, I have to be careful. It’s a tightrope walk of admiration and skepticism. You don’t want to diminish an athlete’s achievement. It’s crucial to avoid jumping to conclusions and making accusations without evidence. However, not addressing these suspicions would be irresponsible. It’s part of the conversation needed to build on a sense of clean sport.”
The broader Cycling Landscape
Archyde News Editor: You also mentioned other top cyclists like Van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Vingegaard. How does their presence impact or complicate the current situation?
Lilian Calmejane: These are also incredibly talented individuals. They create incredible battles. The level of competition across the board is remarkable. It elevates the sport.It’s a point many people seem to forget to mention. The fact that Pogacar dominates doesn’t take away the level of competition in all the stages of the race.”
Addressing the Elephant in the Room
Archyde News Editor: Pogacar’s dominance,coupled with cycling’s past,naturally invites scrutiny. Based on your experience, how tough is it for the sport to move forward past scandals?
Lilian Calmejane: Cycling is the unfortunate sport that has been tainted. The sport will forever be burdened by it. You can’t undo history.The testing is very strict now, and they are doing what they can to show that the sport isn’t the same anymore. However, no matter how hard they try, the shadow will always be there.”
Fair Play and the Future of Cycling
Archyde News Editor: As a former professional, what advice would you give to young cyclists entering the professional ranks today, considering the ethical challenges?
Lilian Calmejane: Stay true to your values. Prioritize your health. The temptation to take shortcuts exists, But enduring success is built on integrity and hard work. Remember what happened with others, and you will be fine.
Looking ahead
Archyde News Editor: Do you think fans’ skepticism will ever truly dissipate, or is it a permanent feature of the sport?
Lilian Calmejane: The doubt lingers. It’s a part of the sport now, sadly. The focus should be on the athletes who consistently operate within the rules. That’s all we can do.”
Archyde News Editor: Lilian, thank you for your insights. Your perspective provides a valuable look inside the sport. We appreciate your time.
Lilian Calmejane: thank you for having me!
