Tadej Pogacar wrapped up an incredible year with 25 official victories—and one more unofficial win last Sunday. The UAE Team Emirates star claimed the top spot at the Beking Criterium in Monaco, where he lives. This charity event, launched by Matteo Trentin in 2021, saw Pogacar take yet another victory on a cold, rainy day. The win comes in a year where Pogacar also extended his contract with UAE Team Emirates through 2030. The fourth edition of the Monaco criterium once again
attracted a strong lineup. Joining Pogacar on the podium were
Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) and
Michael Matthews (Jayco AlUla). Other notable participants included Tim Wellens (UAE Team Emirates), Elia Viviani (INEOS Grenadiers), Matej Mohoric (Bahrain Victorious), and organizer Matteo Trentin himself.
“Beking is a fantastic event, and I’m always happy to take part,” Pogacar told
Monaco Reporter after securing another solo victory. “I’m very happy to have won here because we don’t race in Monaco very often. I’m grateful to Matteo and his entire team for organizing this event for a good cause. It’s crucial for the sport, for sustainability, and for the core values that Beking represents,” said the enthusiastic world champion.
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Pogacar became world champion in September in Zurich
Bad Weather causes many challenges for the organizers
Despite the poor weather in Monaco, organizer Matteo Trentin considered this year’s criterium another great success. “This year, we were tested by the weather, but my colleagues and the sponsors didn’t leave us out in the cold. We couldn’t be prouder of their support,” Trentin said.
The weather caused some uncertainty about whether the event could proceed, but a shortened course allowed the race to continue. “We all gathered in the morning and decided to go ahead. It was fantastic... Truly an unforgettable atmosphere. We pulled it off once again,” the proud Italian declared.