Tadej Pogacar’s €8 Million Annual Deal with UAE Team Emirates – Can Evenepoel Close the Gap?
Tadej Pogacar has cemented his place as the dominant force in professional cycling, and now his salary reflects that
reality. According to *Gazzetta dello Sport*, the Slovenian star is set to earn €8 million per season with UAE Team
Emirates, an increase from his previous €6 million salary. This new deal positions him as the highest-paid rider in
the peloton, with a staggering €200 million buyout clause ensuring that the team will hold on to their prized asset
for the long haul.
Pogacar’s meteoric rise in 2024 has been nothing short of legendary, with the 25-year-old adding a slew of
prestigious titles to his name. From a stunning victory at the Giro d’Italia to his triumphant defense of the Tour de
France and victories in classics like Liège-Bastogne-Liège and Strade Bianche, Pogacar has proven himself as the
sport’s most formidable rider. With 25 wins in a single season, including the World Championships, the Slovenian is
now eyeing even greater achievements, such as surpassing the Tour de France stage win record.
UAE Team Emirates has invested heavily in Pogacar’s success, not only by securing his long-term future but also by
supporting the growth of a women’s development team linked to Pogacar and his fiancée, Urska Zigart. The Emirati-
backed team has become a powerhouse, dominating the UCI rankings and fostering talent from across the globe.
However, the competition is heating up. Rumors are swirling that rival team BORA-hansgrohe, backed by Red Bull,
is ready to offer Belgian superstar Remco Evenepoel a mind-blowing €10 million per year to secure his services.
Should Evenepoel make the move, he could challenge Pogacar’s salary dominance, although many argue that
Pogacar’s exceptional results justify his record-breaking deal.
With the top stars of the peloton earning eye-watering salaries, the world of pro cycling is set to become even more
financially competitive in the years ahead, with Pogacar’s €8 million contract leading the charge.
