Cycling's Crystal Ball: Reflecting on 2025's Bold Predictions and Looking Ahead to 2026
Updated November 17, 2025, 2:26 AM
Let’s face it: predicting the future of cycling is like trying to navigate a cobblestone descent in the dark—thrilling, unpredictable, and often humbling. Last January, I took a leap of faith and shared some bold predictions for the 2025 racing season. Now, as the dust settles on another year of pedal-powered drama, it’s time to revisit those forecasts and see where I hit the mark—and where I missed by a mile. But here’s where it gets controversial: did Tadej Pogačar’s dominance make my predictions too safe, or did I underestimate the chaos of the peloton? Let’s dive in.
The Annual Ritual of Prediction
Like any cycling enthusiast, I can’t resist the allure of forecasting race outcomes. But in an era where Pogačar seems unstoppable, predicting his victories feels less like insight and more like stating the obvious. Still, the fun lies in the unexpected, so last winter, I decided to push the boundaries and predict some truly outrageous scenarios. How did my crystal ball fare? Let’s find out.
Prediction No. 1: Tom Pidcock Shocks the World at the Vuelta a España
Outcome: 3/5
Was I drinking the Tom Pidcock Kool-Aid? Maybe. But I believed that if Pidcock fully committed to road racing, he’d make waves. And he did—in a big way. His move to Q36.5 was a game-changer, and his 2025 season was nothing short of impressive. From his first GC win at the AlUla Tour to a gutsy second-place finish at Strade Bianche, Pidcock proved he’s a force to be reckoned with. While he didn’t win the Vuelta (thanks to Jonas Vingegaard’s dominance), his third-place finish was a breakthrough. But here’s the question: Can Pidcock ever win the Tour de France? Or will he remain a perennial contender for my (not-so) outrageous predictions?
Prediction No. 2: Tadej Pogačar Conquers Paris-Roubaix
Outcome: 4/5
Remember when the idea of Pogačar racing Paris-Roubaix sounded insane? Well, he silenced the doubters with a spectacular debut. Only a late mistake kept him from victory, but his performance was nothing short of legendary. Mathieu van der Poel may have taken the win, but Pogačar proved he’s a cobble-crushing machine. And this is the part most people miss: Pogačar’s willingness to challenge conventions is what makes him a cycling icon. Will 2026 be the year he brings home the cobblestone trophy? I’m betting on it.
Prediction No. 3: Chloé Dygert Dominates the Classics
Outcome: 2/5
Chloé Dygert is a powerhouse, but her 2025 classics campaign fell short of expectations. Despite a strong start in Australia, she struggled to find her rhythm in Europe. Yet, her sixth-place finish at Milan-San Remo and eighth at Paris-Roubaix hint at untapped potential. Considering her near-career-ending crash in 2019, her mere presence in these races is a triumph. Will 2026 be her year to rule the classics? Only time will tell.
Prediction No. 4: Pauline Ferrand-Prévot Brings France a Tour de France Victory
Outcome: 5/5
Pauline Ferrand-Prévot’s yellow jersey win was the feel-good story of 2025. Her decision to target the Tour after her Olympic mountain biking gold was bold, but her execution was flawless. Joining Visma-Lease a Bike proved to be a masterstroke, and her double-win in the French Alps—despite the controversy—solidified her status as a cycling legend. Marianne Vos may be her only rival in terms of talent and versatility. Predicting another yellow jersey for PFP in 2026? Not so outrageous anymore.
Prediction No. 5: Primož Roglič Seeks Tour de France Revenge
Outcome: 1/5
Ah, Roglič. The wild card of cycling. I hoped the cycling gods would deliver him a Tour de France victory in 2025, but it wasn’t meant to be. After a strong start at the Giro, his Tour performance was underwhelming. At 36, this may have been his last shot at the yellow jersey. With rising stars like Remco Evenepoel and Florian Lipowitz vying for attention, Roglič’s future may lie in the Vuelta. But will he go quietly? Knowing Rogla, probably not.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we gear up for another season, the question remains: What bold predictions will define 2026? Will Pogačar continue his dominance, or will a new challenger emerge? Can Pidcock finally crack the Tour de France code? And what surprises will the women’s peloton bring? One thing’s for sure: the world of cycling never stops spinning. So, what are your (not-so) outrageous predictions for 2026? Let’s spark some debate in the comments—I’m all ears!
