Pogačar & Van der Poel: The High-Carb Fueling Revolutionizing Cycling’s Classics

The cobblestone classics – races like the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix – aren’t just about brute strength and bike handling anymore. A quiet revolution in fueling strategies is reshaping the peloton, pushing riders to consume unprecedented amounts of carbohydrates from the moment the flag drops. And it’s not just the pros; this trend is trickling down, influencing how serious cyclists everywhere, even here in Austin, Texas, approach their training and racing nutrition.

The Carb-Loading Arms Race

For years, cyclists have understood the importance of carbohydrate intake, but the intensity and duration of modern racing demand a new level of precision. Teams are now aiming for a staggering 500 calories of carbohydrate per hour, starting from the particularly beginning of a race. This isn’t about a quick energy boost; it’s about sustaining the relentless pace set by riders like Tadej Pogačar and Mathieu van der Poel, who have redefined what’s possible on the cobbles. Visma-Lease a Bike nutritionist Gabriel Martins highlights that the shift is a direct response to the increasingly aggressive nature of racing, where riders are essentially in “breakaway mode” from kilometer zero.

This aggressive fueling isn’t without its challenges. Riders need to carefully manage their intake to avoid gastrointestinal distress, and teams are constantly experimenting with different gels, drinks, and even real food options to find what works best for each athlete. The goal is to maximize glycogen stores and ensure a constant supply of energy to the muscles, preventing the dreaded “bonk” that can ruin a race.

The Pogačar Effect and the Speed of Racing

The performances of Pogačar and van der Poel have undeniably accelerated this trend. Their ability to consistently deliver high-wattage efforts, even on the most demanding terrain, has forced other teams to adapt. As the article points out, races are being completed at record speeds. Pogačar’s 2025 Tour of Flanders victory at an average speed of 45.0kph and van der Poel’s blistering 47.8kph win in Paris-Roubaix in 2024 are testaments to this increased intensity. This speed necessitates a more aggressive fueling strategy to keep riders competitive.

This isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about mental fortitude as well. Knowing you’re adequately fueled allows riders to push harder and maintain focus throughout the race. The psychological benefit of knowing you’ve done everything possible to prepare nutritionally can be just as important as the physiological advantages.

Beyond Carbohydrates: The Role of Supplements

While carbohydrates are the foundation of this new fueling approach, teams are as well exploring the employ of supplements to enhance performance and delay fatigue. Sodium bicarbonate, beta-alanine, and even more controversial substances are being used to buffer muscle acidity, improve endurance, and boost alertness. The use of “finishing bottles” – mysterious concoctions containing a blend of painkillers, stimulants, and other performance-enhancing substances – remains a shadowy aspect of the sport, though teams are becoming more sophisticated in their approach to supplementation.

Jayco-AlUla trainer Peter Leo notes that riders are going “pretty hard” on supplements, and that bicarbonate loading is becoming increasingly common. However, he also cautions about the potential side effects of some of these substances, particularly paracetamol, which can have negative health consequences when used at high intensity.

What This Means for Austin Cyclists

So, what does all this mean for cyclists here in Austin, Texas? While you might not be tackling the cobbles of Flanders or Roubaix, the principles of aggressive fueling and optimized nutrition are still relevant. Whether you’re training for a local crit, a weekend gran fondo, or simply trying to improve your performance on your regular rides, paying attention to your carbohydrate intake and experimenting with different fueling strategies can make a significant difference.

Given my background in sports nutrition and physiology, if this trend impacts you in the Austin area, here are three types of local professionals you need to consider working with:

• Certified Sports Dietitians: Gaze for a registered dietitian (RD) with a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) credential. They can create a personalized nutrition plan tailored to your training volume, intensity, and goals. They’ll support you determine your optimal carbohydrate intake, timing, and sources, as well as address any potential nutrient deficiencies.
• Exercise Physiologists with VO2 Max Testing: A qualified exercise physiologist can conduct a VO2 max test to determine your aerobic capacity and metabolic rate. This information is crucial for calculating your energy needs and optimizing your fueling strategy. Look for facilities equipped with metabolic carts and staffed by certified professionals.
• Bike Fit Specialists with Nutrition Integration: A proper bike fit is essential for maximizing efficiency and preventing injuries. Some bike fit specialists also have a strong understanding of nutrition and can integrate fueling recommendations into your overall training plan. Seek out a fitter who has experience working with competitive cyclists.

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