With the signing of a historic new deal, Slovenian cycling sensation Tadej Pogačar has cemented his position as the sport’s highest-paid rider. With a whopping €200 million buyout clause and profits set at €50 million over six years, Pogačar’s dedication to UAE Team Emirates is unwavering. Let’s examine this record contract, his 2024 season victories, and the future of one of cycling’s most prominent personalities.
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Pogačar’s Expensive New Deal
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pogačar would receive €8 million a year under his new contract, with performance-based bonuses that might increase his pay even further. Pogačar’s continuing loyalty to UAE Team Emirates is essentially guaranteed by this historic agreement, which is in effect until 2030. It has a buyout clause worth €200 million, which is double the previous sum and effectively discourages other teams from trying to entice him away.
In contrast, his peers, Jonas Vingegaard at Visma-Lease a Bike and Remco Evenepoel at Soudal-QuickStep, make almost €5 million a season. Following a season in which he won the world title, the Tour de France, and the Giro d’Italia, Pogačar’s earnings demonstrate his unparalleled worth in the sport.
A Season of Historic 2024
Pogačar produced an outstanding performance in 2024. He won the world title in Zurich and accomplished the Giro-Tour double, which hasn’t been accomplished since Marco Pantani. Pogačar now joins cycling greats like Stephen Roche and Eddy Merckx, who each won the rare triple crown with 25 victories over 58 race days.
Pogačar reflected on his incredible year with amazement and thankfulness. “It was a perfect season,” he declared during the Abu Dhabi eSports World Championships. “I never thought I’d reach this point. I like to challenge myself and make a difference in the sport.
A Close Relationship with the UAE Team, the Nation, and Emirates
There is more to Pogačar’s relationship with UAE Team Emirates than just team allegiance. He claims that he is most prepared to pursue triumphs with UAE Team Emirates, where he has found a “home.” His dedication aligns with the UAE’s increasing passion for cycling. In highlighting Pogačar’s contribution, team manager Mauro Gianetti said, “What he’s doing for Abu Dhabi is worth more than the races he wins.” Here, he has sparked a cycling movement.
New bike routes and ambitions to host the Road and Track World Championships in 2028 and 2029 are proof of the nation’s growing interest in cycling. Pogačar is more than simply a cyclist; his link with the royal family of Abu Dhabi highlights his cultural and symbolic significance to the area.
Rest, recovery, and future objectives
Pogačar and his partner, professional cyclist Urška Žigart, recently had a tranquil vacation in the Seychelles following a demanding but successful season. His current aims for the 2025 season could include winning the Tour de France for the fourth time. The season will probably be centered on carefully selected races that strike a balance between his goals and the time he needs to recuperate.
Pogačar alluded to a few 2025 goals, like the World Championships in Africa, Milan-San Remo, and cobblestone events. He expects a tough Tour de France matchup with Jonas Vingegaard, whom he views as his main opponent. Gianetti affirmed the team’s intentions, saying that in order to increase Pogačar’s chances of success, they will put his health first.
The Difficulties in Dominance
Although Pogačar’s dominance in races has been astounding, others have expressed concern about how it may affect the enthusiasm of the sport. Pogačar, who is well-known for his strong single breakaways and long-distance attacks, acknowledged that he hardly ever watches his wins again since he knows that they may appear unimpressive to spectators. Laughing, he added, “I don’t know how much fun it is to watch a rider ride 50 km alone. I’ve seen some highlights, but not full races.”
Opening the Path for the Future of Cycling
Pogačar is committed to preserving his love for the game while aiming for a prosperous future. “As long as I’m enjoying myself,” he declared. Pogačar has become a cycling role model because of this mentality as well as his persistent commitment to developing and pushing the envelope.
His career has entered a new chapter with the record-breaking deal, and UAE Team Emirates has undoubtedly locked up one of the best riders in contemporary racing for years to come. With a well-planned season and ongoing encouragement from his teammates and the UAE, Pogačar is well-positioned to build on his already outstanding legacy.