Tadej Pogačar: Cycling’s Million-Euro Marvel
In the high-octane world of professional cycling, few names resonate as powerfully as Tadej Pogačar. The Slovenian superstar is not only dominating the race circuits but also raking in a staggering paycheck that rivals the top earners across all sports. In this exciting era of cycling, where talent meets lucrative contracts, Pogačar is at the forefront, leading a new generation of global stars.
The Pursuit of Excellence: Pogačar’s Earnings Explored
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Pogačar’s earnings for the 2025 season are projected to soar beyond 12 million euros (approximately $14 million). What’s more striking is that this amount encompasses salary, bonuses, royalties, merchandising, and appearance fees, highlighting not just his earnings on the bike but also his growing stature in the sporting world.
The recent contract extension with UAE Emirates-XRG, which is set to keep him aboard until 2030, is the richest deal in cycling’s history — an astounding €8 million per season with a colossal €200 million buyout clause. It’s a testament to not only his talent but also the increasing financial clout in professional cycling.
Performance Pays Off
Pogačar’s financial success has been sweetened by performance bonuses based on his victories. A million euros for winning the Tour de France, half a million for the Giro or Vuelta, and €250,000 for clinching the World Championships are just a few of the incentives that keep him hungry and focused. In 2025 alone, he pocketed around €1.25 million in bonuses, slightly less than the record-breaking €1.75 million from his previous triple-crown year.
A Brand in Bloom
Tadej Pogačar’s marketability has skyrocketed alongside his achievements. Managed by A&J All Sports, his sponsorship deals with companies like Colnago, DMT, and Met have earned him about €2 million annually, reflecting his growing popularity. And it’s not just the numbers that are impressive; Pogačar’s personal brand, adorned with the ‘TP’ logo, is gaining traction, with supporters enjoying a range of merchandise that helps fund his foundation and a youth academy in Slovenia.
As his manager Alex Carera notes, Pogačar’s brand value is doubling each year—a remarkable statistic that speaks volumes about his influence in cycling and beyond.
Charting New Territories
Pogačar’s meteoric rise is not just confined to the racetracks. His foray into international recognition includes his upcoming appearance as a guest at the Esports World Championships in Abu Dhabi, further bridging the gap between traditional sports and the rapidly growing digital realm.
He was also nominated for the 2025 Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award, alongside icons from various sports, a recognition that reflects his significance in the broader sporting narrative.
The Bigger Picture
While cycling still straddles behind major American leagues and European football in financial prowess, Pogačar’s case showcases how athletes in this sport can claim their share of success. His story serves as inspiration for budding cyclists: success is not merely about grit and speed but also about building a personal brand and understanding market dynamics.
A Final Thought
Tadej Pogačar is not just conquering races; he’s carving a legacy. With at least five more seasons projected at the pinnacle of cycling, who knows how far the Slovenian powerhouse will go? For cycling enthusiasts, Pogačar offers not just a feast of thrilling races but a blueprint for modern athletic success that’s as inspiring as it is profitable.
Original article: https://velo.outsideonline.com/road/road-racing/14-million-how-tadej-pogacar-earns-cycling-biggest-paycheck/
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