POGI CHALLENGE

TADEJ POGAČAR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Experience a unique three-day cycling event, where racing, a family cycling day, and a legendary climb combine to create an unforgettable experience with Tadej Pogačar. The event has a strong charitable aspect, with funds being raised for the Tadej Pogačar Foundation and the Pogi youth team.

Friday – Tadej Pogačar's criterion

Friday brings Tadej Pogačar's Criterium, an attractive race immediately after the end of the Tour de France. Tadej brings top foreign and domestic cyclists Tadej his home region and offers fans a rare opportunity to experience the world's elite up close.

Saturday – family day

Saturday is dedicated to cyclists, families, and children. The Junior Pogi Challenge, accompanying program, creative activities, and relaxed socializing create a day where cycling becomes accessible, playful, and unifying.

Sunday – the highlight at Krvavec

Sunday represents the heart of the Pogi Challenge, the
challenge. S KLANCA V KLANC. 1,189 cyclists set off on Tadej's home climb to Krvavec and experience a challenge that is not just about speed, but also about willpower, perseverance, and an unforgettable experience alongside the best cyclist in the world.

JOIN THE CHALLENGE OF THE YEAR!

This isn't just a race – it's an experience you'll remember forever. Take on the challenge, cycle alongside the best cyclist in the world, and prove you're up to the legendary climb! Registration is limited – are you in?

Tadej Pogačar

A cycling legend on his home hill

Tadej Pogačar is not only one of the best cyclists in the world - he is a phenomenon who has redefined the limits of endurance and talent. His story began right here, on home roads, where as a young rider he honed his form on the steep climbs of Krvavec, and in 2009 he won his first victory and became the King of Krvavec in the boys C category.

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The best in the world

Multiple Grand Tour winner

Tour de France (2020, 2021, 2024, 2025) and Giro d'Italia (2024).

The only cyclist with a Triple Crown and two monuments

Giro, Tour, SP, Liège-Bastogne-Liège & Giro di Lombardia in the same year.

WORLD CHAMPION 2024, 2025 andEUROPEAN CHAMPION 2025

The first Slovenian to win two prestigious titles.

Number 1 in the UCI rankings

At the top for 5 years.

The only cyclist to stand on the winners' podium at all five monuments in a single season.

HOW CAN YOU JOIN US?

You are invited to join us as a spectator, fan, or competitor. You can enjoy the accompanying program, watch from the track or in the fan zones, and cheer on the cyclists. On Sunday, you can take your place at the starting line as a competitor and test yourself with Pogij in the S Klanca v klanc challenge.

What's included?

  • Start number*
  • Pissei event jersey (upper part)
  • Bidon of the event
  • Sponsor gift bag
  • Concert by a music group
  • Gondola descent into the valley

⏰ Limited registration, only 1,189 places available

Price: 125 €

*Most of the funds raised go to charity.
*Only adults can apply.

What's included?

  • Start number*
  • Signed World Champion jersey
  • Premium starting position next to Tadej Pogačar
  • Meet and Greet with Tadej Pogačar
  • VIP social and banquet
  • VIP photo shoot with Tadej Pogačar
  • Viewing Tadej Pogačar's Criterium in the VIP area
  • 3 nights with half board
  • VIP shuttle transport from the hotel to the start
  • Pissei event jersey (upper part)
  • Bidon of the event
  • Sponsor gift bag
  • Gondola descent into the valley

⏰ Limited registration, only 30 places available

Price: €6,000

*All funds raised will go to charity.
*Only adults may apply.

Admission to the event is free for all visitors.

Friday – Tadej Pogačar's criterion

Friday brings an attractive criterium race, where top domestic and foreign cyclists compete after the conclusion of the Tour de France. Visitors can enjoy the fan zone, accompanying program, and unique atmosphere as the world's cycling elite compete up close.

Saturday – Family Day

Saturday is dedicated to families, young people, and fans of all generations. The highlight of the day is the Junior Pogi Challenge, accompanied by a varied entertainment and accompanying program, creative content, and relaxed socializing in the fan zone.

Sunday – S Klanca v klanc

Sunday brings the climax of the Pogi Challenge with a viewing of the main event S klanca v klanc. Visitors to Krvavec will be welcomed by a fan zone, the conclusion of the charitable activities of the Tadej Pogačar Foundation, an awards ceremony, and a closing program with socializing and a music concert.

Krvavec logo
Buying a gondola ticket

If you join us as a visitor on Sunday, you can secure your cable carticket in advance . Follow us and secure your transport to the top in good time.

FRIDAY

8. TADEJ POGAČAR'S CRITERION

Tadej Pogačar's criterion is a cycling race that takes place in Komenda, his hometown, where once a year the biggest stars of world cycling. The event is the highlight of the sporting calendar and a celebration of cycling for the local community and numerous foreign visitors. The race takes place on a circular track, with each lap measuring 1 kilometer, and the cyclists complete a total of 35 laps. The criterion is designed as a points race, in which victory does not necessarily go to the fastest at the finish line, but to the cyclist who collects the most points throughout the race. During the race, intermediate sprints are organized, with the first four cyclists receiving points (5, 3, 2, and 1). The winner is the cyclist with the most points after all laps, and in the event of a tie, the better finish position decides the winner.

Circle Information
  • Length: 1 km
  • Elevation per lap: 15m
  • KOM (fastest lap on grass): 1 min 19 s
  • GPX file: download

SATURDAY

Family Day

Saturday is dedicated to bringing together cyclists, families, and children, creating a relaxed day where cycling becomes accessible, fun, and a way to connect. The highlight of the day is the Generali Junior Pogi Challenge, a children’s race that will take placein Komenda.

The race starts on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., and registration is free. Each participant will receive a medal and an official water bottle from the event.

Categories
  • 1–5 years ( preschoolers)
  • 1–5 years ( preschool bikes)
  • 6–8 years (first triad)
  • 9–11 years (second triad)
ACCOMPANYING PROGRAM
  • Family day with creative and sporting activities
  • Fan zone and relaxed socializing
  • A varied entertainment program for children and parents

SUNDAY

S KLANCA V KLANC

The event will take place in two exciting parts, where participants will be able to compete with Tadej and see how long they can keep up with him on the way to the top of Krvavec.

Use your mouse and mouse wheel to zoom in and move around the 3D map.

GROUP RIDES

In the first part, all participants will set off from the Komenda Hippodrome, almost from Tadej Pogačar's backyard, in a group start. In a relaxed atmosphere, with the thunderous support of the fans, they will cycle towards the foot of Krvavec.

Stage length: 9.1 KM

POGI CHALLENGE

At the fork in the mountain path towards Krvavec, participants will begin their ascent, followed a few minutes later by Pogi. The main challenge will be to keep up with his pace and reach the top before him. Tadej will Tadej congratulate all those who succeed as true winners.

Stage length: 14.9 km; Elevation gain: 1,189 m; Average gradient: 7.6%

GPX TRANSFERS

To help you follow the official route of the Pogi Challenge and prepare for the event, download the GPX file.

Video presentation of the track

See what's on the route: VIDEO

Pogichallenge 2025 results

See last year's from last year.

ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?

This isn't just a race – it's an experience you'll remember forever. Take on the challenge, cycle alongside the best cyclist in the world, and prove you're up to the legendary climb! Registration is limited – are you in?

TIMETABLE

Three days of sports, adrenaline, and fun

The Pogi Challenge is a three-day event that combines top-level cycling with a unique fan experience. It begins on Friday with a criterium race featuring Tadej Pogačar and other cycling stars, followed by the Junior Pogi Challenge and Sunday's recreational climb S Klanca v klanc, held in the spirit of charity.

FRIDAY - TADEJ POGAČAR'S CRITERION

📍 KOMENDA

12:00 – Registration for competitors
14:00 – Opening of the fan zone
15:00 – Competition – Boys C and Girls B/C
15:30 – Competition – Boys B and Girls A
4:00 PM – Competition – Boys A
4:30 PM – Competition – Junior Boys
5:15 PM – Competition – Senior Boys
6:30 PM – Competition – Elite Women
7:30 PM – Competition – Elite Men
8:30 PM – Awards Ceremony
8:45 PM – Reception for Tadej Pogačar
9:00 PM – Entertainment Program

SATURDAY - FAMILY DAY

📍 KOMENDA

4:00 PM – 7:30 PM Opening of the fan zone and pickup of race numbers
6:00 PM – Start of the Junior Pogi Challenge Generali
7:30 PM – End of the Junior Pogi Challenge Generali
7:30 PM – Entertainment program

10:00 - Start of collection of starting numbers
10:00 - Opening of the Fan Zone
10:30 - Lombardia race broadcast on the big screen
17:00 - Music
19:00 - Closing of the collection of start numbers

SUNDAY - S KLANCA V KLANC

KOMENDA KRVAVEC KOMENDA

7:00–9:30 – Pick up race numbers
9:00 – Opening of the fan zone at Krvavec Beach
10:00 – RACE START
11:00 – First competitors cross the finish line
13:00 – Awards ceremony in Komenda
13:30 – Accompanying program in Komenda

💡 Note: 


Pick up your number on Saturday and avoid the morning crowds!

7:00 - 9:00 - Collecting start numbers
7:00 - 9:00 - Check-in of equipment (backpacks)
7:00 - Opening of the fan zone in Komenda
9:00 - Opening of the fan zone on Krvavec beach
10:00 - Start of the race
12:00 - Charity auction of Tade's products
13:00 - Podcast 202 + press conference + Golden Rogovo kolo award ceremony
14:00 - Free concert by Siddharta
16:00 - Party with DJ
18:00 - Closing of the event
19:00 - Last gondola departure

Auction of Tadej Pogačar's items

Auction of Tadej's personal items, which Tadej , signed, and donated for the purpose of the auction. All funds raised in the campaign will be donated to the Tadej Pogačar Foundation.

VENUE

Where and how will the event take place?

The Pogi Challenge takes place at two key locations – in Komenda, where the three-day event begins, and on Krvavec, where the main cycling challenge ends. Each day brings its own content and unique experience, and together they create a comprehensive cycling festival.

Coming soon

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

RESERVE YOUR PLACE TODAY!

This isn't just a race – it's an experience you'll remember forever. Take on the challenge, cycle alongside the best cyclist in the world, and prove you're up to the legendary climb! Registration is limited – are you in?

Information

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE EVENT

Practical information for all participants and visitors - from registration, parking, transport, security and the extra benefits your registration brings. Check key details and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

On Friday and Saturday, the event will take place in Komenda, and on Sunday between Komenda and Krvavec.

Saturday's events and the distribution of start numbers will take place at the Komenda racecourse.

Parking will be free for all participants at the Komenda racecourse. Please follow the instructions of the traffic wardens, who will direct you to the location.

Parking will be provided at the racecourse. Once cyclists have completed all the necessary registration formalities, they should proceed along Glavarjeva Street to the marked starting point. Please follow the instructions of the marshals, who will direct you to the start.

During the event, there will be short-term total road closures on the route between Komenda and Krvavec beach. There will be a longer road closure in the municipality of Komenda on Glavarjeva Street, where the start of the race will take place.

The top ( Krvavec beach) will be cleaned up:

  • Bicycle storage area, where competitors will hand over their bicycles to staff who are trained in handling bicycles for storage, upon presentation of their start number. Bicycles can also be collected with a start number card, no later than 7 p.m. The bicycle storage area is not accessible to the public. The event staff will supervise the logistics of bicycle collection and return.
  • Bag check station, where competitors can also collect their equipment at the top at any time until 7 p.m. with their start number card.
  • A changing room or changing area upstairs will be provided.
  • The more valuable items should stay in the car, with your supporter or with you.

The return trip to the valley by gondola will be free of charge for all competitors (without accompanying persons). It is mandatory to display the start number on the bike. Each gondola can carry two bikes.

Something like this: bag check + wardrobe, drop the bike off at the garage, party.

After successfully completing the cycling challenge, the real socialising and fun is just beginning. We have prepared a varied programme, which will end with a music concert. You can expect:

  1. Award ceremony for the winners.
  2. Fun zone and unforgettable entertainment: the Summit will be enriched by exciting interactive sponsor activations and numerous prize games. There will also be an unforgettable free concert where visitors can relax and celebrate their cycling successes. If not theirs, at least Tadej's.

Accommodation can be arranged with our partners:

We also invite you to support the local community by staying in accommodation in the surrounding municipalities of Komenda or Cerklje na Gorenjskem.

All funds raised through the charity auction and sale of VIP tickets will go to the Tadej Pogačar Foundation. The foundation organizes various charity events, supports sports activities by donating equipment, cooperates with research institutions, and carries out awareness campaigns. Its main mission is to help children who have survived or are still battling cancer.

PREPARE LIKE A PRO!

11 RULES FOR A SUCCESSFUL HILL CLIMB

Practical information for all participants and visitors - from registration, parking, transport, security and the extra benefits your registration brings. Check key details and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

Timely arrival

Make your registration formalities in advance so you can start without worrying.

Check the bike

Make sure your bike is in good working order and don't forget your spare tube.

Electric bike? No, thank you!

This is a cycling challenge, not a competition to see who has the better bike. If you want to feel the true magic of racing, you have to pedal yourself!

Don't forget to drink

Regular hydration with isotonic drinks is essential for longer rides.

Eat on time

Replenish your energy continuously, not only when hunger overcomes you.

Make the most of the cafeteria

The refreshment station along the route allows you to stop and recharge your batteries, so we advise you not to skip it and prevent exhaustion.

Be aware of others

If you stop, make it clear so as not to endanger your teammates.

Keep an overview of what's happening

Take care of yourself and others and avoid unnecessary fights.

Choose your meal wisely before driving

Carbohydrates and hydration the night before are key to getting off to a good start.

Distribute energy evenly

Start at a moderate pace so you don't run out of energy before the finish.

Don't pollute the environment

Please dispose of your trash in the designated bins and help keep the trail clean.

Contact

NEED MORE INFORMATION?

For any general questions or media information, please contact us - we're happy to help!

General information

General partner

STO
National partner

SPIRIT

Major partners

Partners

Supporters

Organisers