The Fortress Mountain climb was 1.6 km long, with an average gradient of 9.4%. The maximum gradient hit 15%, right near the summit.
A climb like this was, without a doubt, perfect for a Pogačar breakaway and solo attack.
And as it turned out, the course of history remained unchanged.
After Hirschi led his team leader up the climb, pulling for nearly 600 meters on the relatively gentler section, he, like his other teammates, completely blew up.
But the moment his teammate pulled aside, Pogačar immediately got out of the saddle and launched his attack.
His move instantly ignited the fans watching from the grassy roadsides, who erupted in a deafening roar!
On the European Sports Road Bike Channel, Steve's commentary, almost a shout itself, quickly picked up the action:
"Pogačar, the undisputed leader of UAE Team, has attacked on Fortress Mountain!!!
