In an inspiring display of generosity and compassion, cycling superstar Tadej Pogačar has stunned the world by donating an extraordinary \$19.5 million to fund the construction of a state-of-the-art homeless shelter in London. The surprise announcement came earlier today and has sparked admiration from fans, fellow athletes, and humanitarian organizations across the globe.
Pogačar, a two-time Tour de France champion and one of the most dominant figures in modern cycling, made the announcement during a press conference at City Hall alongside London Mayor Sadiq Khan and leaders from several homelessness advocacy groups. The shelter, which will be named “The Phoenix Centre,” is set to become one of the largest and most innovative facilities of its kind in Europe, offering not just shelter but comprehensive services designed to help individuals transition out of homelessness permanently.
### A Vision Beyond the Bike
Pogačar, just 26 years old, is known for his incredible physical endurance and strategic brilliance on the road. But today, it was his heart that took center stage.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky in my life — not just with cycling, but with the support I’ve had around me,” Pogačar said. “I’ve seen up close, especially in big cities like London, how many people don’t have that same support. I want to do something meaningful with what cycling has given me, and I believe this is just the beginning.”
The donation will fully cover the cost of building the Phoenix Centre, a cutting-edge facility that will provide safe accommodation, healthcare, mental health support, job training, addiction recovery programs, and permanent housing placement services. Scheduled to open by late 2026, the shelter is expected to serve over 2,000 people annually.
### A Global Role Model
The Slovenian cyclist’s act of generosity has reverberated around the sporting world. Fellow athletes, including tennis star Novak Djokovic and footballer Marcus Rashford, took to social media to applaud Pogačar’s selflessness.
“Tadej just set a new standard,” tweeted Rashford, who himself is known for his work combating child food poverty. “This is what using your platform looks like. Incredible.”
Cycling legends such as Eddy Merckx and Chris Froome also praised Pogačar, with Merckx calling it “a historic moment for sport and humanity.”
### A City Responds
In London, where homelessness continues to be a pressing issue — exacerbated by housing shortages and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis — Pogačar’s initiative has been hailed as a game-changer.
“This is more than a donation — it’s a beacon of hope,” said Mayor Khan. “Tadej Pogačar isn’t just a world-class athlete; he’s a world-class human being. On behalf of London, we thank him.”
Several local charities, including Crisis and Shelter UK, have partnered with the project to ensure the facility meets the most urgent needs of London’s homeless population. These groups will also help staff and operate the centre once it opens.
### More Than a Legacy
While Pogačar’s cycling legacy continues to grow — with multiple Grand Tour victories and a seemingly endless potential — this gesture has shown a different side of the young champion.
Fans have already begun referring to him as “The People’s Champion,” a title that now transcends his achievements on the bike.
“Tadej’s donation isn’t about headlines,” said former teammate and close friend Rafal Majka. “It’s about action. It’s about love for people. That’s who he is.”
As the world of sport continues to grapple with questions about responsibility and impact, Tadej Pogačar has offered a clear answer — not with words, but with action. And in doing so, he’s not just racing toward finish lines — he’s helping others find a fresh start.