Tadej Pogacar, known for his relentless optimism and fierce competitiveness on the bike, was left saddened after hearing of a crash involving his girlfriend, fellow professional cyclist Urska Zigart. The accident, which reportedly left Zigart with a possible concussion, weighed heavily on the Slovenian star’s mind as he reflected on the fragility of life both on and off the bike.
“That’s sad news – way sadder than losing 50 seconds or even a minute to Jonas,” Pogacar said, drawing a poignant comparison to the rivalries and challenges that define his racing career. His words offered a rare glimpse of vulnerability from the usually cheerful UAE Team Emirates rider, as his thoughts turned from his own ambitions to Zigart’s well-being.
Cycling Battles Pale in Comparison
While Pogacar has been vocal about his love for cycling’s current “golden era” and the intense battles between himself, Jonas Vingegaard, and other top riders, the news of Zigart’s crash cast a shadow over his usual enthusiasm.
“I enjoy the battles, the excitement of racing, and the state of the sport right now,” Pogacar admitted. “But moments like these remind me of how much more there is to life than racing. The health and happiness of the people we care about are what matter most.”
The Weight of Leadership in Cycling
As one of the sport’s brightest stars, Pogacar is acutely aware of the influence his performances have on cycling. His ability to inspire fans and elevate the sport’s profile is something he doesn’t take lightly. However, the incident with Zigart has left him reflecting on the risks and sacrifices inherent in professional cycling, even for those he loves most.
“Cycling is beautiful, but it’s also unforgiving,” he said. “We push ourselves to the limit, but sometimes we’re reminded of how quickly things can change.”
Hoping for a Quick Recovery
For now, Pogacar’s focus is on supporting Zigart as she recovers. While her condition is not yet fully known, Pogacar’s concern and sadness are evident, as he hopes for her swift return to health.
As the cycling world gears up for another thrilling season, Pogacar’s heartfelt reaction to Zigart’s accident serves as a reminder of the human side of the sport—a world where triumphs and heartbreaks often coexist, both on and off the bike.
