2024 Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal

The Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal is always one of the most exciting races of the season, and this year was no exception. Covering the event for the third time, I knew what to expect—big crowds, incredible energy, and a race that never fails to deliver drama. But even with that in mind, 2024 still managed to surprise me.

Montreal is a city that truly embraces cycling. Whether it’s the daily commuters braving all seasons, the endless group rides snaking through the streets, or the packed cafés where conversations revolve around watts, gear ratios, and upcoming rides—cycling is in the city’s DNA. The Grand Prix takes that passion and puts it on full display. Fans line the streets, some setting up hours in advance to claim the best spots, cowbells in hand, voices ready to cheer.

The race itself? Brutal. The 209.1 km course around Mont Royal is relentless, with steep climbs like Côte Camillien-Houde and Côte de Polytechnique wearing down the riders lap after lap. This year, the competition was fierce, with constant attacks and counterattacks as teams tried to control the race.

Then came the decisive move. Tadej Pogačar, already one of the biggest names in cycling, launched a solo attack on the penultimate lap. It was classic Pogačar—perfectly timed, surgically executed. The peloton scrambled, but no one could bring him back. He crossed the line 24 seconds ahead of Pello Bilbao, with Julian Alaphilippe rounding out the podium.

Seeing a champion like Pogačar win here, in front of such an engaged and passionate crowd, felt fitting. After the race, he admitted how much confidence this win gave him heading into the World Championships, and you could tell he fed off the energy of the fans.

For me, this event is always special. It’s not just about the race—it’s about the people, the city, and the electric atmosphere that makes the Grand Prix Cycliste de Montréal one of the best stops on the calendar. And after witnessing another unforgettable edition, I’m already counting down the days until 2025.