BREAKING NEWS: Slovenian Cyclist Super Star Tadej Pogačar Donates Entire $20 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Deal to Charities and Homeless Relief
In a move that has stunned the sports world and earned him admiration across the globe, Slovenian cycling sensation Tadej Pogačar has announced that he is donating his entire $20 million bonus and sponsorship earnings from this year to charities, humanitarian organizations, and homeless relief programs.
Speaking to an emotional crowd at a press conference in Ljubljana, Pogačar humbly shared his motivation for this extraordinary act of generosity.
“Winning races is a dream, but making a difference in someone’s life is what truly gives me purpose,” Pogačar said. “I’ve been blessed with opportunities, support, and success that go far beyond what I ever imagined as a kid growing up in Slovenia. This is my way of giving back and standing up for those who’ve been left behind.”
“This is bigger than cycling.”
The 25-year-old cyclist, who recently added another Tour de France podium finish to his ever-growing list of achievements, said that this decision had been in the works for months. Pogačar noted that conversations with his fiancée, fellow cyclist Urška Žigart, as well as his own reflections during long training rides, inspired him to do more than simply race and win.
“I’ve cycled through towns and cities where people sleep in tents on the sidewalks,” he explained. “It broke my heart. I realized I could do something meaningful—not just symbolic, but transformative.”
Pogačar’s $20 million donation will be distributed across several initiatives:
- $8 million will go to European-based NGOs focused on homelessness, housing, and job training programs.
- $5 million will support youth development and cycling programs in underprivileged regions of Africa and Southeast Asia.
- $3 million is being directed to mental health support and addiction recovery centers across Slovenia and other Balkan countries.
- The remaining $4 million will fund emergency shelters, food banks, and education grants through the newly created “Pogačar Foundation for Human Dignity.”
Global Reaction
The announcement has drawn praise from around the world, with athletes, political leaders, and celebrities commending Pogačar for using his platform to create tangible change.
Tour de France director Christian Prudhomme called the donation “the most meaningful off-the-bike moment in modern cycling history,” while fellow cyclist Chris Froome tweeted, “Tadej, you’re not just a champion on the bike—you’re a champion of humanity.”
Even Pope Francis reportedly extended a message of thanks to Pogačar, highlighting the gesture as “a rare light of compassion in an often self-centered world.”
A New Era of Athlete Activism?
This generous move comes at a time when more and more athletes are using their influence to advocate for causes beyond their sport. Yet few have gone to the extent of Pogačar’s donation.
Tadej was quick to deflect the praise.
“I’m not trying to be a hero. I’m trying to be human. I believe every person deserves dignity—whether they wear the yellow jersey or they’re sleeping on a bench.”
Family and Team Support
According to Pogačar, his team at UAE Team Emirates and his family stood by him from the beginning.
“My sponsors were incredible. I told them what I wanted to do, and not one of them said no. In fact, some of them even matched my donations,” he revealed with a smile.
His fiancée, Urška, who was present during the announcement, wiped away tears as Tadej shared his plans.
“I’ve known for a long time that Tadej’s heart is as strong as his legs. But today, he showed just how deep his compassion runs,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Pogačar isn’t slowing down either. He confirmed that he remains committed to racing and has his eyes set on the 2024 Olympics in Paris, but added that he will be dedicating more time in the offseason to visiting the programs supported by his foundation.
“I want to see the impact first-hand. I want to meet the people. Cycling has brought me to the top of the world, and now I want to bring others with me.”
In a sport often defined by grit and glory, Tadej Pogačar has just added another layer to his legacy—one of generosity, vision, and compassion. His donation will undoubtedly change lives, but it may also shift how the world sees elite athletes: not just as competitors, but as changemakers.