Goodbye for Now: A Message from Tadej Pogačar.

Dear Fans,

As I sit down to write this, I feel a whirlwind of emotions. Today, I am saying goodbye for a while, and I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your unwavering support has been the driving force behind my journey as a professional cyclist, and it means the world to me.

Cycling is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. Every pedal stroke, every climb, every sprint has been fueled not only by my ambition but also by the cheers, the messages, and the belief that you all have placed in me. I have had the incredible fortune to race on some of the most beautiful roads in the world, competing against the best and pushing my limits. Each race has been an opportunity to connect with you, to share our passion for cycling, and to inspire one another.

This decision to take a step back wasn’t easy. The intensity of professional cycling requires not only physical strength but also mental resilience. After a demanding season, I have realized the importance of taking time to recharge and refocus. It’s vital for me to ensure that when I return, I am at my best—both for myself and for you, my loyal fans.

During this break, I will be reflecting on my experiences, setting new goals, and, most importantly, spending time with my family and friends. They have been my backbone, supporting me through the highs and lows of this demanding career. It’s a time for growth, learning, and rejuvenation.

To my fellow athletes, I want to say thank you for pushing me to be better every day. The camaraderie in this sport is special, and I have learned so much from my teammates and competitors alike. I will be following your journeys closely, cheering for you all from the sidelines. The spirit of competition is alive and well, and I am excited to see what the next chapter holds for everyone.

While I may be stepping back for now, I promise this is not a farewell forever. I am committed to returning stronger and more determined than ever. The thrill of racing, the adrenaline of crossing the finish line, and the joy of connecting with all of you are experiences I truly cherish. I cannot wait to don my jersey again and compete at the highest level, fueled by the passion we all share.

In the meantime, I encourage you to keep pursuing your own passions. Whether you’re a cyclist, a fan, or someone who simply enjoys the beauty of sport, stay motivated and continue to support each other. Our community is built on encouragement and shared dreams, and I believe that together we can achieve remarkable things.

As I embark on this hiatus, I’ll stay active on social media to keep you updated on my journey. Expect glimpses of my training, some behind-the-scenes moments, and a few surprises along the way. Your engagement has always inspired me, and I want to keep that connection alive, even when I’m off the competitive circuit.

Thank you for believing in me, for being there through the exhilarating victories and the challenging setbacks. Your support has been a beacon of light, guiding me through my journey as an athlete. I look forward to the day when I can return to racing with renewed vigor, ready to tackle new challenges and make you all proud.

So, until we meet again on the roads, keep dreaming big, stay passionate, and remember: this isn’t goodbye—it’s just a pause. I promise to return, and I can’t wait to share the next chapter of my journey with you.

With all my gratitude and excitement for what’s to come,

Tadej Pogačar