The world of international cycling is once again in crisis. Just half an hour ago, the UCI confirmed the filing of no fewer than twenty official complaints against Tadej Pogačar, the star Slovenian rider of the UAE Team Emirates. All the accusations have one thing in common: his climbing prowess, his lightning-fast recovery after difficult stages, and his team’s seemingly perfect tactics are considered by many to be “unnatural.” While fans around the world are torn between disbelief and disappointment, the UCI is trying to bring order to what is shaping up to be one of the most extensive investigations in recent years.
Pogačar, a two-time Tour de France winner and the face of modern cycling, remains calm. Despite the pressure, rumors, and accusations, he hasn’t reacted harshly. During a brief press conference, he repeated just five words that, he says, perfectly sum up his career: “Passion, confidence, honesty, work, love.” Those simple yet powerful words have gone viral. They have reaffirmed his fans’ faith in his sincerity and his pure love for the sport.
However, doubts persist. Critics point out that UAE Team Emirates’ dominance is too great to be a mere coincidence. Pogačar’s climbing style—light, rhythmic, almost effortless—reminds many of a time cycling would rather forget. Some even call it “the return of Armstrong’s shadow.” Others believe it’s unfair to distrust talent simply because it’s exceptional.
Silence reigns within the team. There has been no official statement, only a promise to fully cooperate with the UCI investigation. Anonymous sources within the team emphasize that all training and nutrition plans are in compliance and that Pogačar’s achievements are the fruit of years of discipline and unmatched mental strength.
Meanwhile, a storm is brewing on social media. The hashtag #StandWithPogacar is trending, while others are calling for transparency and stricter controls. The world is watching, waiting for answers.
Whatever happens, one thing is clear: Tadej Pogačar is more than just a cyclist. He has become a symbol of admiration and doubt: the intersection of sport, faith, and human perfection. And, whether guilty or innocent, his five words will remain etched in the memory of cycling: Passion. Trust. Honesty. Work. Love.
