When Patrick Lefevere, the seasoned manager of one of cycling’s most successful teams, Deceuninck–Quick-Step, first met Urska Zigart, he was instantly struck by her unique demeanor—one that set her apart from the world of cycling’s glamorous wives and girlfriends.

In a candid interview, Lefevere recently shared the fascinating story of his first encounter with Tadej Pogacar’s girlfriend, Urska Zigart, and the contrast he felt between her and the stereotypical expectations surrounding the significant others of the sport’s top athletes. Known for his straightforward approach and no-nonsense attitude, Lefevere’s story offers an interesting glimpse into the world of professional cycling, offering an unexpected perspective on the women behind the champions.

A Meeting with a Difference

The world of professional cycling is not only fiercely competitive but also filled with larger-than-life personalities. Team managers, like Lefevere, have seen it all, from intense rivalries to charismatic athletes and their equally magnetic partners. However, when Lefevere first encountered Urska Zigart, a Slovenian professional cyclist who has carved out her own niche in the sport, it was immediately clear that she was different.

Unlike many others in the cycling world who might be preoccupied with the limelight, social media, or glamorous lifestyles, Urska appeared focused and grounded. Lefevere recalled his initial impression of the young woman, who, in many ways, defied the stereotypes surrounding the partners of elite athletes.

“She doesn’t act like she’s the girlfriend of the best cyclist in the world,” Lefevere said, referring to Pogacar, who has won multiple Tour de France titles and is widely regarded as one of the most talented cyclists of his generation. “She’s very professional. She’s focused on her career. When you talk to her, it’s about cycling, not about Tadej or his successes. That’s something I really appreciate.”

Focused on Her Own Career

Lefevere’s comments highlight an important aspect of Urska Zigart’s character. Despite her relationship with Pogacar, she has managed to retain her individual identity and focus on her cycling career. She is not just another person living in the shadow of her famous partner, but an athlete in her own right with ambitions and goals that are separate from his.

Zigart, a professional cyclist with notable achievements in her own career, has long been respected for her talent, discipline, and work ethic. She has represented her country, Slovenia, in multiple international competitions and has established herself as a strong contender in women’s cycling events. However, it’s her humility and dedication to her craft that have truly set her apart in the cycling community.

“I have never seen her use her relationship with Tadej as a stepping stone,” Lefevere explained. “She is always pushing herself, always working hard, and always staying true to her own goals. It’s not about being in the spotlight; it’s about achieving something for herself.”

The Power of Silence

One of the most remarkable aspects of Urska Zigart’s character is her ability to remain quiet amidst the chaos. In an era where athletes and their partners often thrive on media attention, social media posts, and public recognition, Zigart stands out for her low-profile, private life. She does not indulge in the typical celebrity lifestyle that comes with dating one of the world’s best cyclists.

While Pogacar enjoys the adulation that comes with his fame, Urska has taken a step back. This difference is striking to those who have observed their relationship from the outside, including Lefevere, who noted that she remains respectful of her partner’s spotlight but doesn’t seek to live in it.

“She’s not trying to be part of the media circus that comes with being with someone like Tadej. It’s almost like she doesn’t want any extra attention. She just wants to do her job, ride her bike, and focus on her own goals,” Lefevere said. “She doesn’t seek the limelight, and that’s something I really admire.”

This type of quiet professionalism is something that stands out in the world of cycling, where both riders and their significant others often face pressure to maintain a constant public presence. Urska’s decision to carve her own path has made her a respected figure in her own right, and she is increasingly being recognized for her sporting achievements rather than simply being in the orbit of one of the sport’s most high-profile stars.

A Relationship Built on Mutual Respect

While the cycling world often focuses on the individual achievements of riders, it is clear that Tadej Pogacar and Urska Zigart share a relationship built on mutual respect. Lefevere’s account of their dynamic reveals a couple that balances their individual goals while supporting each other behind the scenes.

“The way they work together, their chemistry, it’s evident. But they each have their own lives, their own careers, their own dreams,” Lefevere noted. “Tadej respects Urska for who she is and what she does. He doesn’t expect her to be just ‘the girlfriend.’ And I think that’s what makes their relationship so strong—respect for each other’s independence and dedication.”

This relationship dynamic is a stark contrast to many high-profile partnerships where the identity of one partner is often overshadowed by the achievements of the other. In Pogacar and Zigart’s case, both are striving for greatness on their own terms, and neither has to sacrifice their identity for the sake of the relationship.

Zigart’s Rising Reputation

Urska Zigart’s achievements speak for themselves. As one of the top riders in women’s cycling, she has consistently performed well in both national and international competitions. Her dedication to the sport has led to her becoming an inspiration to many young women hoping to make their mark in the cycling world.

She has proven herself as a talented and resilient competitor, often finishing among the top contenders in prestigious races. Her accomplishments go beyond just riding in the shadows of Pogacar’s fame; she has established herself as a formidable athlete with a promising future ahead.

Lefevere, who has worked with numerous cyclists throughout his career, has witnessed the rise of many talented athletes. However, he emphasized that Urska’s professionalism and attitude are what truly set her apart from the rest.

“I’ve worked with a lot of athletes, and one thing that I can say about Urska is that she doesn’t take anything for granted. She doesn’t expect anything to be handed to her,” Lefevere remarked. “She works for every result she gets, and that’s the kind of mentality that makes her stand out. That’s why I believe she’s going to achieve great things in the future.”

Conclusion

In an age where media attention and social media often amplify the lives of athletes and their partners, Urska Zigart has proven that success in cycling doesn’t require the constant pursuit of fame or public recognition. Her quiet determination, professionalism, and unwavering focus on her own goals are qualities that set her apart from many others in the sport.

While Tadej Pogacar may be one of cycling’s brightest stars, Urska Zigart is forging her own path with the same dedication and humility that defines her. Patrick Lefevere’s reflections on their first meeting shed light on the reasons why Urska is so admired, not only for her achievements but for the way she handles the pressures of being in a relationship with one of the sport’s top athletes. In a world that often elevates the partners of celebrities to a level of visibility that can overshadow their individual identities, Urska has remained true to herself—focusing on her career and letting her talent do the talking.

In the end, Urska Zigart isn’t just Tadej Pogacar’s girlfriend—she’s a rising star in her own right, and the cycling world is taking notice.