💔 TEARS AND TRUTH: Tadej Pogacar’s Wife Urška Žigart Breaks Down on Live TV, Blames UAE Emirates for His Injury at the 2025 Tour de France
In an emotional and unexpected moment that left the cycling world stunned, Urška Žigart, professional cyclist and wife of Tadej Pogacar, broke down in tears on live television, accusing Team UAE Emirates of pushing her husband too far during this year’s Tour de France. Her heartfelt outburst has triggered a wave of discussion across the global cycling community, with fans, journalists, and even former riders debating the limits of athlete endurance and the pressure of modern professional sports.
During what was supposed to be a standard post-stage interview, Žigart could no longer contain her frustration and pain. With tears streaming down her face, she spoke candidly about the sacrifices Pogacar has made—and the toll it is now taking on both his body and mind. “I think the UAE Emirates are pushing him too hard. I’m afraid he’s overdoing it,” she said, her voice trembling. “People sometimes forget who an athlete really is. They’re not machines. You can’t just keep pushing and expect it not to backfire.”
Pogacar, a two-time Tour de France champion and arguably the most talented cyclist of his generation, had entered the 2025 Tour as the heavy favorite. But fans noticed early signs of trouble during the second week of racing, where he appeared fatigued and, at times, visibly in pain. According to team reports, Pogacar sustained a minor but nagging injury to his knee after a crash on Stage 11, which worsened in the following stages. Despite medical advice suggesting rest, Pogacar continued racing under immense pressure to secure another yellow jersey, a decision that has now come under intense scrutiny.
Urška Žigart’s emotional plea on live TV has opened a conversation that many insiders say is long overdue. Her comments suggest that Pogacar’s drive for victory may have been fueled not only by personal ambition but by relentless expectations from his team and sponsors. “I want him to come home. I want him healthy. I don’t want to see him burn out for the sake of headlines or trophies,” Žigart added, holding back sobs. The moment was raw, unfiltered, and instantly viral.
Social media exploded within minutes. Clips of Žigart’s interview flooded Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, with fans rallying behind her. Hashtags like #LetPogiRest and #AthletesAreHuman began trending, while opinion pieces started popping up across major sports outlets. Some commentators praised her bravery for speaking out, while others questioned whether the team truly had Pogacar’s best interests at heart.
Team UAE Emirates has since released a carefully worded statement, acknowledging Pogacar’s injury but denying any intentional negligence. “We have always prioritized the health and safety of our riders. Tadej is a champion, and champions push boundaries—but always with their well-being in mind,” the statement read. However, the public remains skeptical, especially after Žigart’s tearful remarks, which painted a much more personal and painful picture behind the scenes.
Former pros have also weighed in. Retired cycling legend Alberto Contador posted on X, “I know what it feels like to be pushed past your limits. Sometimes the hardest decision is to stop.”
As the Tour de France continues without Pogacar at his full strength, the cycling world is left wondering: How far is too far? At what point does the pursuit of greatness cross the line into self-destruction? Urška Žigart’s words may have started as an emotional plea, but they’ve become a rallying cry—a reminder that even the most superhuman athletes are still human at heart.
