Tadej Pogacar says decision not to select girlfriend Urska Zigart helped sway Olympic no-show

Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian cycling sensation, recently shed light on his decision to skip the upcoming Olympics, attributing part of his choice to the non-selection of his girlfriend, Urska Zigart, from the national team. Zigart, also a professional cyclist, was a notable omission from Slovenia’s Olympic roster, a decision that Pogačar found disheartening.

In an interview, Pogačar expressed his disappointment over Zigart’s exclusion. “Urska is an incredible athlete and has proven herself on numerous occasions. Not having her by my side at the Olympics was a significant factor in my decision,” he stated. The couple, both prominent figures in the cycling world, share a deep connection and have been each other’s pillars of support throughout their careers. Pogačar emphasized how having Zigart with him would have provided emotional support and boosted his morale during the intense competition.

Beyond personal reasons, Pogačar also cited the demanding schedule and the need to prioritize his physical and mental well-being. “The Olympic games are a huge commitment, and after a grueling season, I need to consider my overall health. It’s important to be in the best possible shape for future races,” he explained. The cycling calendar is notoriously rigorous, and Pogačar has been at the forefront of many key events, including the Tour de France, where he has consistently performed at an elite level.

Pogačar’s decision not to participate in the Olympics has raised eyebrows, but it underscores the importance of personal well-being and the impact of support systems on athletes’ performances. By choosing to sit out, Pogačar aims to recharge and return stronger for the upcoming challenges in his cycling career. He remains committed to representing Slovenia in future events and supporting his teammates from afar during the Olympic Games.