In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the professional cycling world, Slovenian superstar Tadej Pogačar has reportedly reversed his decision to leave UAE Team Emirates, despite previously agreeing to a four-year, $109 million contract with rival British team Ineos Grenadiers. The dramatic U-turn has left fans and analysts speculating about what could have caused the change of heart from one of the sport’s most dominant figures.
Just weeks ago, cycling insiders were abuzz with the news that Pogačar, a two-time Tour de France champion and arguably the sport’s most marketable rider, had agreed to join Ineos Grenadiers in what would have been the most lucrative contract in cycling history. The $109 million deal over four years marked a significant shift in the balance of power among WorldTour teams, signaling Ineos’s aggressive intent to reclaim Tour de France supremacy.
For Ineos Grenadiers, who have been in the shadow of both UAE Team Emirates and Jumbo-Visma in recent seasons, acquiring Pogačar was seen as the bold move needed to return to their dominant years when they ruled the Grand Tours with the likes of Chris Froome, Geraint Thomas, and Egan Bernal.
However, on the eve of what was expected to be a formal announcement, reports emerged that Pogačar had decided to stay with UAE Team Emirates. The 25-year-old reportedly had second thoughts about leaving the team that nurtured his meteoric rise to the top of the sport.
Sources close to the rider suggest that loyalty to the UAE squad, deep-rooted relationships with teammates and staff, and a strong belief in the team’s long-term vision played significant roles in his decision. While the financial package offered by Ineos was record-breaking, it appears that personal values and emotional ties ultimately won out.
Speaking anonymously, a source from the UAE Team Emirates camp said:
“Tadej is not just a rider here—he’s family. We’ve built something special around him, and he knows that. The money was tempting, sure, but he values trust and loyalty above all.”
What This Means for Ineos Grenadiers
For Ineos Grenadiers, Pogačar’s reversal is a bitter blow. The team had reportedly begun planning major structural changes to accommodate the Slovenian, including shifts in leadership roles, support riders, and strategy. Their pursuit of Pogačar was part of a broader move to reshape the team’s identity after a string of underwhelming Tour de France performances.
Although Ineos still boasts a strong roster with riders like Tom Pidcock, Carlos Rodríguez, and Egan Bernal, the failure to secure Pogačar leaves them without a clear leader capable of consistently challenging for Grand Tour victories in the near term.
There is also the question of trust and reputational damage. A high-profile reversal of this kind may cause hesitation for future stars considering negotiations with Ineos.
What’s Next for Pogačar?
With his commitment reaffirmed, Pogačar is now set to continue his career with UAE Team Emirates, where he has a contract through 2027. The team has built a powerful Grand Tour unit around him, and the infrastructure is in place to support multiple Tour de France campaigns.
Fans can now look forward to watching Pogačar lead a cohesive and ambitious UAE squad into the 2025 season, with eyes once again on the yellow jersey in July. There is also anticipation around how the team will handle future contract negotiations, given the intensity and pressure surrounding this latest saga.
Pogačar’s decision to stay may ultimately be viewed as a rare act of loyalty in a sport increasingly driven by big money and commercial interests. While no one would have faulted him for accepting such an enormous financial offer, his choice sends a powerful message about the importance of relationships, trust, and long-term vision.
In a statement released by UAE Team Emirates, team manager Mauro Gianetti said:
“We are proud to continue our journey with Tadej. He is not only the best rider in the world, but a person of incredible character. This decision strengthens our bond and our belief in what we’re building together.”
The cycling world may have been preparing for a major shift, but Tadej Pogačar’s decision to stay with UAE Team Emirates has instead reaffirmed the team’s status as the center of modern cycling power. While Ineos Grenadiers will now return to the drawing board, UAE can move forward with renewed confidence and clarity.
And as for Pogačar—his legend only grows, both on and off the bike.
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