Tadej Pogačar just landed in Belgium from his home in Monaco. And he already has thoughts on the biggest news in cycling.

The Slovenian superstar is gearing up for the Tour of Flanders 2026, this Sunday, April 5. He will now face a brand new challenger on the cobbles. Remco Evenepoel shocked everyone by adding the grueling Monument to his schedule.

Pogačar appeared on the Belgian television show Vive le Vélo on Thursday night. He gladly shared his reaction to the massive news.

"Have I sent him a message yet? No," Pogačar said. "I was somewhat surprised by his participation, but then again, not really. There had been rumors for a while."

The timing of the announcement definitely amused him.

"Yesterday was April 1st, so maybe it was even a joke," he laughed. "It is nice that he is participating."

Feeling The Belgian Love

Pogačar is overflowing with confidence. He touched down at the airport and immediately felt the wild energy of the Belgian classics season.

"I cannot wait to start on Sunday," he said. "I think I am ready for it. I have done a lot for it in training. At the airport, I already felt the enthusiasm of the fans. People were waiting for signatures and photos."

He absolutely loves the atmosphere in Flanders.

"In Belgium, I am also recognized the most," Pogačar explained. "When I first rode the Ronde, I found it mindblowing how many people were on the side of the road. Crazy to ride through that. You really feel that Belgium is the cradle of cycling."

Pogacar Brushes Off Milano-Sanremo Crash

The UAE Team Emirates leader is having a flawless spring. He already won Strade Bianche and Milano-Sanremo this March. He also brushed off the massive crash he suffered right before the Cipressa in Italy.

"Sanremo is a different kind of race, but I had a few days to rest afterwards," Pogačar noted. "Surprisingly, that crash did not leave severe damage. I hardly suffered from it."

While resting at home, he kept a very close eye on the recent cobbled races. He was especially proud of his teammate Florian Vermeersch.

"I have followed the E3, Wevelgem, and Dwars door Vlaanderen over the past week, which were very interesting. Florian did a fantastic job," he said.

Pogačar even joked about his post-race text messages to his teammate.

"I always send him a message after the race. 'Why don't you win?'" Pogačar laughed. "No, everyone on the team is in good shape. Sunday we are counting on everyone to go for the win."