Del Toro faces the Pogacar vs. Merckx debate without fear and has already moved on from the Giro: "I sleep just fine"

Del Toro won his first race of the year in March (Milan-Turin), but in the fall, he really ignited. No fewer than seven victories in the Italian fall races made him one of the kings of the season. His performances ultimately propelled him to third place in the UCI world rankings, behind Jonas Vingegaard and Pogacar.

The Mexican can therefore only be satisfied with his year. In conversation with Marca, he gives himself a score, although it will be slightly lower than most fans would give him. “I have a very positive assessment; I can benefit from everything I have learned this year. I think it's an 8,” said Del Toro. “I lacked rigor in some areas and attention to detail in others.”

It is not illogical to think that losing the pink jersey in the penultimate stage of the Giro d'Italia bothers him the most. “Of course, it's difficult to lose the pink jersey. I think it's something I still have a lot to learn from in the future. It really wasn't the way I wanted to end, but at least I can sleep peacefully, so it doesn't bother me.”

Together with world champion Pogacar, João Almeida, and Juan Ayuso, Del Toro racked up an impressive 54 victories. The 21-year-old star gets along well with his Slovenian teammate, whom he describes as “a good friend.” “I try to tease him. We laugh together and share what we love to do. For now, it's work, and that's fun,” says the Mexican about his relationship with Pogacar.

The Slovenian star has had another incredible season. His performances have earned him comparisons to Eddy Merckx, and Del Toro weighs in on the discussion. “Merckx is the greatest in history, and I have enormous respect and admiration for him. Of course, I've only seen Tadej ride, that's the cycling I know: I admire and respect him.”

For the Giro runner-up, there is no doubt. “For me, based on what I have known in my entire life and what I have seen in real life, Tadej is the best, but I have absolute respect for Merckx and everything he has done in the past. Without a doubt, if we look at the statistics, Merckx occupies the top position.”