An Open Letter from Tadej Pogačar to Mads Pedersen
Dear Mads,
I’ve wanted to write this letter for some time—not just as a competitor, but as someone who has immense respect for you as a rider, a teammate, and a true ambassador of cycling. On behalf of myself and the entire cycling community, I want to express my admiration for everything you bring to the road, and the inspiration you’ve become to so many.
From the very first time I lined up against you, I knew I was racing someone different. You bring heart, grit, and fearlessness to every single kilometer. Whether it’s sprinting into the wind, charging up brutal climbs, or throwing down in a breakaway, you ride with purpose—and it pushes all of us to ride harder.
Your World Championship win in 2019 was more than a victory—it was a statement. A reminder that belief, resilience, and timing can shake the world. But what’s been even more powerful is how you’ve continued to show up since—with humility, consistency, and a relentless work ethic that makes you one of the most respected riders in the peloton.
Mads, you have this way of turning pain into power. You fight in every race like it’s your last, never backing down, never giving up. Whether you win or lose, you make the race unforgettable. And as someone who loves this sport as deeply as you do, I just want to say: thank you.
Thank you for making cycling better.
For showing fans around the world what it means to give everything. For racing with character. For being the kind of rider who lifts others up, even while chasing victory yourself. You’ve reminded us all that cycling isn’t just about winning—it’s about honor, about showing courage when it hurts the most.
To the fans and the entire cycling community—you know it too. Mads doesn’t just race bikes. He races with heart. And that’s what sets him apart.
I’m proud to share the road with you, Mads. And I look forward to many more battles, breakaways, and hard-fought finishes ahead.
With respect and admiration,
Tadej Pogačar
UAE Team Emirates