The moment came on the Côte de la Redoute at Liège-Bastogne-Liège as we all expected it would. Julian Alaphilippe and a few other favourites were momentarily spotted at the head of the main field, briefly giving the suggestion that the bike race would unfold. But, as he always does, Tadej Pogačar had other ideas. He knows that on most days he is stratospheres ahead of the competition put before him. Remaining seated, he moved to the head of the group and rode away from his rivals with ease – but unmistakeable power – up the climb like he was on a leisurely Sunday jaunt. It was that easy.

“When do you retire?” was the question put to him by Ben Healy with a smile on his face behind the podium afterwards. Niceties aside, it must be difficult for everyone else that plies their trade in the sport, to be beaten emphatically so often.

This time round it was just a minute to the next best riders on the road, Giulio Ciccone and Healy, although Pogačar’s performance suggested it could have been far greater if he had really wanted it to be. He said that he had simply been “testing his legs” on the notorious climb.

From a fan’s and journalist’s perspective, Pogačar is a likeable rider. He’s fun, charismatic and engaging, with his personality bringing new eyes to the sport, something to be celebrated. He is also modest and unassuming in his dealings with the media, remaining polite and friendly during every press conference and is generous with his time.