Why Mads Pedersen should be the next rider to claim a Monument: 'On paper, what he did is impossible'

Mads Pedersen has taken another step forward in 2025. The Danish powerhouse from Lidl–Trek was superb throughout the spring classics season and went on to claim the points jerseys in both the Giro d’Italia and the Vuelta a España. A coveted Monument still eludes him, but his compatriot Brian Holm is convinced: this could be Pedersen’s year.

The former professional rider notes that the Lidl–Trek leader came close to winning a Monument more than once this season. “He’s one of the best riders in the world, it's in the cards,” Holm told Eurosport. “He’s paid to win big races, and that’s what he’s done. He had the power to win the Tour of Flanders or Paris–Roubaix. Last time, it was purely a matter of tactics."

Among all his results, Holm says the victory at Gent–Wevelgem stands out above the rest. Pedersen rode solo for 70 kilometres on his way to a third win in the Belgian classic. “On paper, what he did is impossible. It’s almost impossible to go that far in Gent–Wevelgem, which is essentially a sprinters’ race. From Ypres to Wevelgem, they go so hard... and he still stays out front. I simply don’t understand how he does it.”

The former world champion also embodied consistency this season. His first victory came in February, and his last in September with a stage win and the green jersey at the Vuelta a España. “Even his low points were incredibly high,” Holm continued. “First the Giro d’Italia and the classics, then he kept up the momentum into the Vuelta and won the points jersey. If he gets any better, he’ll beat Pogacar.”

Pedersen also has a key advantage over Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel, according to Holm. “His perseverance. He can sustain it for such a long time. He’s been incredible. And it seems like he’s become a bit smarter too; more calculating, waiting for those key moments. Except in Gent–Wevelgem,” Holm laughs.

The sprinter has made no secret of the fact that Paris–Roubaix is at the top of his wish list, and Holm sees him as one of the top favourites. “I’d almost be surprised if he doesn’t win a Monument. He’s definitely getting close. There’s always a lot of tactics involved, and some luck, some bad luck. But I think he’s got the legs for it.”