From Champion to Leader: Tadej Pogačar’s Finest Moment

A note to young leaders.

Winning races will make you a champion – but it’s only by winning hearts that you become a leader.

At just 26 years old, Slovenian cycling sensation Tadej Pogačar has already claimed four Tour de France titles – making him the youngest rider ever to reach this feat.

But on May 25th 2024, Pogačar crossed the line from champion to leader.

In the penultimate stage of the Giro d’Italia, riders face a gruelling 184km route with two brutal ascents of Monte Grappa. With the race on a knife’s edge, Pogačar decides to launch a daring solo attack on the second climb.

Midway through the punishing ascent, an exuberant 12-year-old fan sprints alongside Pogačar, shouting encouragement. Instead of ignoring him or waving him away, Pogačar pauses to acknowledge the young fan … and hands him his water bottle.

In the crucible of elite cycling, where every second counts, Pogačar’s spontaneous gesture captures the hearts of viewers and quickly goes viral.

Life is more than fame and fortune – these are its outer garments only. Life is spirit and spontaneity and emotion.

People will forget your victories and medals, but they’ll never forget your magnanimity.