A thrilling tale of determination and grit unfolds at Il Lombardia, where Quinn Simmons, the 24-year-old American cyclist, left everyone in awe with his audacious performance. While he didn't claim the victory, Simmons' ride was nothing short of extraordinary, earning him praise from the legendary Tadej Pogačar himself.
The Unstoppable Breakaway
Simmons' weekend began with a bang, launching an aggressive attack just three kilometers into the race. This bold move set the tone for the day, as he drove the main break and maintained his lead for an incredible five hours. Despite not making it to the podium, Simmons' stubborn determination and long-range breakaway left a lasting impression.
But here's where it gets controversial... Simmons' effort didn't go unnoticed by Pogačar, who admitted to being a bit scared of the young American's prowess on the penultimate climb. "An impressive race by Quinn," Pogačar said, acknowledging Simmons' dangerous riding skills.
A Season of Growth
This performance showcases Simmons' remarkable growth in the WorldTour. After winning the junior world title in 2019, he faced the challenge of understanding why his peer, Remco Evenepoel, excelled immediately in the pro ranks, while he had to work harder. But Simmons' perseverance paid off, and he's now making his mark with a series of audacious attacks throughout 2025, including his first two WorldTour-level victories this season.
And this is the part most people miss... Simmons' ride on Saturday was a testament to his new level of riding. His head unit data revealed an average power of 390 watts over nearly six hours, with over 4,400 meters of climbing and an average speed of 41.4 km/h. These numbers speak volumes about his improved performance and dedication to the sport.
The Ultimate Test
Simmons' solo effort on the Passo di Ganda, where he built a three-minute lead over the chasing favorites, was a true test of his endurance. It took the combined might of Pogačar and Evenepoel to reel him in with just five kilometers left to the summit. Despite his valiant effort, Simmons' tank was running low after nearly five hours at the front.
On the technical descent into Bergamo, he fought hard to maintain his fourth-place position, finishing behind Pogačar, Evenepoel, and Storer.
Lidl-Trek's social media post, "What. A. Ride.", summed up the sentiment perfectly. Simmons' ride was a showcase of old-school panache combined with modern training techniques, leaving even the greats in awe.
So, what do you think? Is Simmons' performance a sign of a rising star in the cycling world? Or was it just a flash in the pan? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this impressive race!
