€50 Million in Six Years and a €200 Million Buyout Clause – Tadej Pogačar’s New Contract Revealed
In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the cycling world, Slovenian cycling prodigy Tadej Pogačar has signed a massive new contract, securing his future with his current team for the next six years. The contract, reported to be worth €50 million over its duration, is one of the most lucrative in the history of professional cycling. Additionally, the deal includes a staggering €200 million buyout clause, making Pogačar’s departure from the team nearly impossible unless a rival team is willing to break the bank.
The news of Pogačar’s new contract comes as a culmination of years of dominance in the sport. The 25-year-old has already established himself as one of the greatest cyclists of his generation, with two Tour de France victories and numerous other prestigious race wins to his name. His remarkable ability to perform in both stage races and one-day classics has made him the face of modern cycling, drawing comparisons to legends like Eddy Merckx and Miguel Induráin.
The contract, which was finalized earlier this week, ensures that Pogačar will continue to race for his current team, UAE Team Emirates, at least through 2030. The €50 million salary over the six years is a reflection of Pogačar’s marketability and his value to the team, both in terms of performance and global appeal. The deal will likely set a new benchmark for cyclist salaries, as teams look to lock in their stars for the long term in an increasingly competitive and financially driven sport.
The €200 million buyout clause is perhaps the most striking aspect of the contract. This clause is designed to protect the team from losing their star rider to a rival squad. In theory, any team wishing to acquire Pogačar would have to meet the buyout demand, which would be unprecedented in the world of professional cycling. Such a clause signals UAE Team Emirates’ commitment to retaining their star cyclist and their belief that Pogačar will remain the centerpiece of their team for the foreseeable future.
For Pogačar, the new contract is a testament to his status as the future of cycling. Since bursting onto the scene with his first Tour de France victory in 2020, he has continued to dominate the sport with exceptional consistency. His recent victories at major races, including the 2023 Giro di Lombardia and the Tour of Spain, further reinforced his place as one of the sport’s premier talents. Pogačar’s aggressive style and versatility have made him a fan favorite and a key figure in the sport’s global growth.
Pogačar’s new contract also reflects the broader shift in professional cycling, as the financial stakes in the sport continue to rise. Teams are investing heavily in their star riders, with sponsorship deals, media rights, and merchandise revenue becoming increasingly important sources of income. In this climate, the biggest teams are vying for top talent, and securing a rider like Pogačar is a move that ensures a competitive edge for the long term.
In a statement regarding the contract, Pogačar expressed his excitement about the future and his gratitude toward the team. “I’m incredibly proud to be part of such an amazing team and to have the trust of everyone at UAE Team Emirates,” he said. “We’ve accomplished a lot together already, but I believe we can achieve even greater things in the years to come. This contract represents the long-term commitment I have to this team and to the sport, and I can’t wait to keep pushing forward.”
With Pogačar’s future secured, the cycling world is eagerly anticipating his next moves on the road. As one of the most dominant riders of his era, the new contract ensures that his legacy in the sport will continue to grow, while also setting the stage for an even more exciting chapter in professional cycling. Whether he can continue his reign at the top or face new challenges from emerging talents, one thing is clear: Tadej Pogačar’s future in cycling is as bright as ever.
