Cycling fans are in shock following the emergence of assault allegations against Tadej Pogačar, one of the sport’s brightest stars. The Slovenian cycling sensation, praised as a generational talent and the face of modern cycling, is now at the center of a scandal that has sent shockwaves through the cycling world. A 20-year-old woman, Kimberly Cake, has accused Pogačar of assaulting her at a nightclub on April 18, 2025.
The allegations were made public late last night and immediately led to an official investigation by the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale). For Pogačar, who was preparing for the highly anticipated 2025 Giro d’Italia, the timing couldn’t have been worse. Less than 24 hours after the news broke, the 25-year-old cycling prodigy announced his dramatic withdrawal from the race, leaving fans and critics stunned.
Cake’s claims, although not yet verified, cast a dark cloud over Pogačar’s previously spotless reputation. Known for his dominance in Grand Tours, including three consecutive wins at the Tour de France, Pogačar had been seen as a top favorite for the 2025 Giro. His sudden withdrawal has shaken the cycling world, with many wondering what this means for his future.
The UCI investigation could lead to serious consequences for the Slovenian rider. As of now, Pogačar faces a possible suspension from all upcoming races, including the prestigious Tour de France, which he has won three times. A suspension would be a devastating blow for a rider whose career had been on a meteoric rise.
News of the investigation and his withdrawal has divided fans and colleagues. Some supporters are standing by Pogačar, questioning the allegations and calling for patience until the facts are clear. Others express shock and disappointment, emphasizing the importance of accountability in the sport. Regardless of opinion, it’s clear that this incident has rocked the cycling community to its core.
Pogačar’s team, UAE Team Emirates, has yet to issue a detailed statement. However, sources close to the team report significant confusion and disbelief within the camp. Staff and teammates, who had long seen Pogačar as a leader and role model, are now grappling with the fallout of the allegations.
Reactions from the wider cycling world have also come swiftly. Former and current riders, including legends like Chris Froome, have voiced concern over the damage such allegations could do to the sport’s image. “It’s a tough time for cycling,” Froome said in an interview. “We’ve worked so hard to clean up the sport, and scandals like this cast a shadow once again.”
Social media has exploded with responses, with hashtags like #JusticeForTadej and #CleanCycling trending globally. Fans are split between disbelief and support, flooding platforms with messages either defending Pogačar or calling for a thorough investigation. The public divide only heightens the drama as the world waits for clarity.
If found guilty, the consequences for Pogačar could be devastating. He could lose the opportunity to compete in the 2025 Giro and future Grand Tours, and his legacy in the sport could suffer major damage. His position in the Tour de France—where he has become an icon of his generation—could be at serious risk.
For now, all eyes are on the ongoing investigation. Pogačar has not yet made any public comments about the accusations. Fans and critics alike are left wondering: will the cycling prodigy return to the sport, or will this scandal mark the end of a once-promising career? One thing is certain—this case is far from over, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for Tadej Pogačar.