Tadej Pogačar secured a record-equalling third victory at the Tour of Flanders but could face a fine after reportedly running a red light at a railway crossing during the race.
Belgian prosecutors confirmed they are investigating the incident involving a group of riders with more than 200km remaining.
Red-light incident under investigation
Race officials had instructed the peloton to stop as the railway crossing lights turned red. However, a group at the front, including Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel, crossed the tracks while chasing the early breakaway.
Pogačar said the riders were not given enough warning to slow down, explaining that the signal to stop came only moments before the crossing.
Belgian media reports suggest riders involved could face fines ranging from €320 to €4,000 and possible driving bans.
Historic victory
The win puts Pogačar level with Mathieu van der Poel and several others on three victories at the race.
The Slovenian now has 12 wins in cycling’s five Monument classics, moving clear of Roger De Vlaeminck in the all-time list and sitting second behind Eddy Merckx.
Pogačar attacked on the final ascent of the Oude Kwaremont to drop Van der Poel and secure victory.
Roubaix challenge ahead
Having already won the Milan-San Remo earlier this season, Pogačar could make further history if he wins Paris-Roubaix next weekend.
Victory there would make him only the fourth rider to win all five Monument races.
Women’s race
In the women’s event, Demi Vollering claimed victory with a dominant ride.
She finished ahead of Pauline Ferrand-Prévot and Puck Pieterse to secure her third Monument triumph.
Discussion about this post