In a surprising turn of events that has reverberated throughout the cycling world, Slovenian cycling power couple Tadej Pogačar and Urška Žigart have officially announced their divorce in August 2025, bringing an end to a long-term relationship that had captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
The pair, who had been together for several years and frequently supported one another at races and events, cited the intense demands of their professional careers as the primary reason for their split. According to sources close to the former couple, the decision to part ways was mutual and amicable, with both athletes maintaining respect and admiration for one another.
“Our Paths Have Grown Apart”
In a joint statement posted to their respective social media platforms, Pogačar and Žigart wrote:
“After much thought and many heartfelt conversations, we have decided to end our relationship. We have grown in different directions, and as much as we cherish the memories we have made, we feel this is the best step for both of us. The love and support we’ve shared will always remain a part of who we are.”
The statement struck a somber yet mature tone, emphasizing that the breakup was not the result of personal conflict but rather the increasingly divergent paths of their professional lives. Both riders have been in high demand on the global stage: Pogačar, a two-time Tour de France champion and dominant figure in Grand Tours, and Žigart, an Olympic-level time trial specialist and rising star in women’s cycling.
Fans React with Shock and Support
News of the split sparked an emotional reaction among cycling fans. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of support, nostalgia, and disbelief. Many followers referred to the pair as the “first couple of cycling,” admiring the way they balanced elite competition with a seemingly grounded and supportive relationship.
“I thought they were going to grow old together, riding into the sunset,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “They gave us hope that love could survive even in the harshest of sports.”
Others pointed out how rare it was to see two professional athletes at the peak of their disciplines maintain such a high-profile relationship for as long as they did.
A New Chapter?
While both Pogačar and Žigart have emphasized the importance of privacy during this transition, the rumor mill hasn’t stopped spinning. Reports have recently surfaced linking Pogačar to Italian cyclist Chiara Bellini, a 24-year-old climber who made headlines with a breakout performance in the 2025 Giro Donne. The two were reportedly seen having dinner together in Milan following the race, fueling speculation about a possible romance.
Neither Pogačar nor Bellini has confirmed any relationship, and representatives for both athletes have declined to comment. However, insiders within the cycling community suggest that the two have grown close over the past season, having shared several training sessions and team events.
Žigart Focused on Future Goals
Meanwhile, Žigart is said to be focusing entirely on her 2026 season, with hopes of making a major impact at the UCI Road World Championships. A source close to her team stated that she is “in a good place emotionally” and is “pouring her energy into her sport and personal growth.”
Despite the breakup, there appears to be no bad blood between the two cyclists. During a post-race interview at the Tour of Scandinavia, Žigart wished Pogačar “nothing but success and happiness,” and Pogačar has continued to like and comment on her Instagram posts.
The split marks the end of what many fans considered a fairytale relationship. While it’s a deeply personal matter, its impact has been felt across the broader cycling world, where both riders continue to inspire with their strength, resilience, and grace—on and off the bike.
As both athletes turn the page on this chapter of their lives, fans around the globe will undoubtedly be watching closely to see what comes next—for their careers and their hearts.