Many experts pick Pogacar, but German ex-rider predicts bronze for the Slovenian: "He lacks a bit of fighting spirit"

When asked to name a favorite upon the announcement of the grueling course in Kigali, most quickly chose Pogacar. The defending champion won almost everything he competed in this year (UAE Tour, Strade Bianche, Tour of Flanders, Flèche Wallonne, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Dauphiné, and Tour) and would therefore be the man to beat in Rwanda.

However, Sunday's time trial brought about some changes. A very strong Evenepoel brutally beat Pogacar. The Belgian was already considered one of the favorites for the road race. Still, after the Aerobullet managed to overtake his Slovenian rival in the time trial, he is now also considered by some experts to be the man to beat.

For example, Voigt who shared his thoughts on Sunday's road race with Eurosport. "It seems that Pogacar has lost some of his motivation after the end of the Tour de France. He's lacking a bit of fighting spirit. Evenepoel is the favorite, followed by Pogacar, Del Toro, and then Pidcock," the 54-year-old German said emphatically.

Voigt also thought the Belgian team was stronger than the Slovenian team. “Belgium is powerful, and that's crucial in a race where you don't have to leave your box for a long time. Evenepoel has already proven that he can handle races of this kind. He has already become a world champion and an Olympic champion. Pogacar is always dangerous, but I see the advantage with Evenepoel.”

If you say A, you have to say B, so Voigt ventured a prediction for the entire podium. “Evenepoel, Pogacar, Del Toro, and Pidcock. They will battle it out to see who makes it onto the podium. I think Del Toro will drop out. Evenepoel will take gold, Pidcock silver, and Pogacar will ride to bronze,” he said, sounding quite bold.