🚨 BREAKING: Tadej Pogačar’s Wife, Urška Žigart, Breaks Down on Live TV – Accuses UAE Team of Pushing Him Too Hard After Tour de France Injury
In a shocking and emotional moment that has stunned the cycling world,Urška Žigart, professional cyclist and wife of two-time Tour de France championTadej Pogacar, burst into tears during a live television interview just minutes ago.
The unexpected outpouring came during a broadcast on Slovenian national television, where Žigart was asked about her husband’s devastatinginjury at the 2025 Tour de France. What began as a routine discussion quickly turned into a raw, vulnerable confession that pulled back the curtain on the private toll of elite-level sport.
“I think theUAE Team Emiratesare pushing him too hard,” she said, her voice trembling. “I’m afraid he’s overdoing it. I think sometimes people forget who an athlete really is – and how to maximize their potential. It can all backfire.”
As her eyes welled with tears, Žigart added:
“He should spend more time at home. I want him healthy. Not just for racing… but for life.”
Her emotional statement was broadcast live and has since gone viral, drawing widespread attention from fans, sports analysts, and fellow riders. Within minutes, hashtags like#SupportPogacarand#Lethimrestwere trending on social media across Europe.
🩺 The Injury That Sparked It All
Pogačar, the Slovenian cycling prodigy hailed as one of the greatest talents of his generation, suffered asevere knee injury during Stage 17of the 2025 Tour de France. While initial reports described the injury as “manageable,” his withdrawal from the race the following day shocked fans and raised questions about his workload and recovery management.
Sources close to the team say Pogačar had complained of pain in the days leading up to the incident but insisted on continuing to ride “for the team.” Now, Žigart’s public remarks are amplifying long-standing concerns about overtraining and the pressure placed on high-performing athletes in Grand Tours.
⚠️ UAE Team Under Fire
While UAE Team Emirates has yet to issue an official response, insiders say management was “blindsided” by Žigart’s televised comments. The team, known for its aggressive calendar and high demands on riders, is now facing scrutiny from both fans and media alike.
Sports commentatorChris Boardmanweighed in during a live segment shortly after the interview aired:
“There’s always been tension between pushing for performance and respecting athlete well-being. But when a spouse — and fellow cyclist — speaks out like this, it’s a wake-up call.”
❤️ A Cry for Balance
This isn’t the first time the question of burnout and overtraining has arisen in pro cycling, but Žigart’s emotional plea has made it deeply personal. Her words highlight a growing conversation aroundmental health, recovery, and the human side of sport— especially for those living in the constant spotlight of global competition.
Whether Pogačar returns before the end of the season remains uncertain. For now, what’s clear is that behind every champion is not just a support team — but a family hoping he comes home safe.
