Tuscany’s famed white gravel roads will bear a fresh name in honor of cycling superstar Tadej Pogačar. Race organizers RCS Sport have announced that a 600-meter sector of the Strade Bianche course, Colle Pinzuto, will be officially named in recognition of Pogačar’s unprecedented three victories in the race – achieved in 2022, 2024, and 2025. This tribute places him alongside Fabian Cancellara as the only riders to have a sterrato sector named after them.
The decision to honor Pogačar underscores his dominance in the Strade Bianche, a race known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions. His consistent success on the gravel roads of Tuscany has cemented his status as a modern cycling icon. The Colle Pinzuto sector, a 7.5% gradient climb, proved decisive in Pogačar’s most recent win last March, where he distanced himself from rival Tom Pidcock to secure his third title. This year marks the 20th edition of the race, adding further significance to the honor.
A Legacy Etched in Gravel
The naming of the Colle Pinzuto sector follows a tradition established in 2017 when Fabian Cancellara, also a three-time winner of Strade Bianche (2008, 2012, and 2016), was similarly recognized. Cancellara’s named sector is Monte Sante Marie, a location that also played a pivotal role in Pogačar’s 2024 triumph. The gesture highlights the race’s commitment to celebrating its most accomplished riders and acknowledging their impact on the event’s history.
Pogačar’s 2025 victory wasn’t without drama. A crash while exiting the Monteaperti sector with 50 kilometers remaining threatened to derail his chances. However, after a sporting gesture from Pidcock, who waited for him to rejoin, Pogačar launched a powerful attack on the Colle Pinzuto sector, ultimately winning the race by 1 minute and 24 seconds. This resilience and attacking spirit have become hallmarks of his racing style.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Race
Pogačar will have the opportunity to further solidify his legacy at the 2026 Strade Bianche on Saturday, March 7, as he aims for a record-breaking fourth victory. He will be supported by teammate Isaac del Toro and will face stiff competition from riders including Tom Pidcock, Wout van Aert (Visma-Lease a Bike), and Ben Healy (EF Education-EasyPost). The 203km course will feature 14 sterrato sectors, promising a grueling test of endurance, and skill.
The 2026 edition of Strade Bianche will undoubtedly be a spectacle for cycling fans worldwide. The race’s unique combination of challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and world-class riders makes it one of the most exciting events on the cycling calendar. The presence of the newly named Colle Pinzuto sector will serve as a constant reminder of Pogačar’s achievements and inspire future generations of cyclists.
As Pogačar prepares to challenge for a fourth title, the cycling world will be watching closely. The Strade Bianche continues to evolve, but its spirit of adventure and its celebration of cycling’s greatest talents remain constant.
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