A professional cyclist covers over 10,000 kilometers (6.213 miles) per year, participating in 80 days of competition, spending up to 220 days away from home. They share hotel rooms with teammates, exert maximum effort in each pedal stroke on the road, and sometimes face challenging weather conditions. But is it worth it?
From race winnings to endorsement deals and lucrative sponsorships, the financial success of cyclists reflects not only their speed on the road but also their marketability off it.
Let’s take a look at what these incredible athletes are up to around the world.
1. Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates) – €6 million:
Leading the pack is the Slovenian sensation, Tadej Pogacar, reigning supreme with a whopping €6 million in earnings. Pogacar’s exceptional performances on the road and his marketability have undoubtedly contributed to this substantial paycheck.
2. Chris Froome (Israel Start-Up Nation) – €5.5 million:
In a tie for the second position, we have Chris Froome from Israel Start-Up Nation, a seasoned name in the cycling world. His accomplishments and global appeal have earned him a noteworthy €5.5 million.
3. Peter Sagan (Total Energies) – €5.5 million:
Sharing the second spot is the charismatic Peter Sagan, representing Total Energies. Sagan’s prowess on the bike, combined with his engaging persona, secures him a solid €5.5 million.
4. Geraint Thomas (Team Ineos) – €3.5 million:
Securing the fourth position is Geraint Thomas from Team Ineos, with earnings totaling €3.5 million. Thomas’s consistent performances continue to keep him among the top earners in the cycling world.
5. Egan Bernal (Team Ineos) – €2.8 million:
Closing out the top 5 is Egan Bernal, also from Team Ineos, with a respectable €2.8 million. The Colombian cyclist’s triumph in the 2019 Tour de France and subsequent successes contribute to his notable earnings.
