In a move that has sent shockwaves through the cycling world, Tadej Pogačar, the two-time Tour de France champion and one of the sport’s most electrifying talents, has announced his sudden departure from UAE Team Emirates. The news, confirmed by both the rider and the team in brief statements Tuesday morning, has left fans, teammates, and analysts stunned and scrambling for answers.
Pogačar, just 26 years old, has become a dominant force in professional cycling, earning a reputation for his aggressive style, charismatic presence, and seemingly limitless potential. His back-to-back Tour de France victories in 2020 and 2021 marked him as a generational talent. Since then, he’s added monumental classics, stage races, and podium finishes to his ever-growing resume — all while riding under the UAE Team Emirates banner.
So why leave now?
In his statement, Pogačar gave little away, simply writing:
“After much reflection, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from UAE Team Emirates. I will always be grateful for the support, the friendships, and the journey we shared. It’s time for a new chapter — one that challenges me in new ways.”
While the rider didn’t immediately reveal his next destination or plans, speculation is already rampant. Some insiders suggest a move to a rival WorldTour team with a different strategic focus. Others believe Pogačar may be seeking more control over his racing calendar or even looking to take on a leadership role in building a new team project from the ground up.
For UAE Team Emirates, the loss is seismic. Team director Mauro Gianetti said the departure came as “a surprise” but expressed gratitude for Pogačar’s contributions. “Tadej brought us glory, energy, and unforgettable victories,” he said. “We wish him all the best in whatever comes next.”
Fans around the globe are mourning the end of an era. Social media has exploded with tributes, confusion, and sadness — but also curiosity. Where will Pogačar land next? And what does this mean for the landscape of professional cycling?
One thing is certain: wherever he goes, Tadej Pogačar remains a rider who doesn’t just follow the path — he reshapes it.
Leave a Reply