BREAKING NEWS: Tadej Pogačar Invests \$3.6 Million to Transform Historic Belgian Estate into Shelter for Homeless Youth
*Liège, Belgium – May 4, 2025*
In a stunning and heartwarming development that transcends the world of professional cycling, two-time Tour de France winner and reigning champion of Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Tadej Pogačar, has announced the launch of a groundbreaking philanthropic initiative: the transformation of a centuries-old Belgian manor into a state-of-the-art shelter and rehabilitation center for homeless youth across the Wallonia region.
At a press conference held this morning in central Liège, Pogačar stood beside Belgian civic leaders and local charity organizers to unveil his plans for the \$3.6 million investment, a personal contribution drawn entirely from his race winnings and sponsorship income over the past three years.
“I’ve won a lot on these roads,” Pogačar said, visibly moved. “But I’ve also seen a lot—too many young people with no home, no future. I’ve ridden past them. I couldn’t keep doing that and call myself a champion.”
### A Shelter Like No Other
The property in question is the Château de Vervaux, a sprawling, ivy-clad estate located just 20 kilometers south of Liège, which dates back to the late 17th century. Vacant since 2011 and falling into disrepair, the manor has long been a symbol of decay in the region—until now.
Pogačar’s investment will fund a complete renovation of the estate, with plans to open its doors by early 2026. The new facility—tentatively named *Maison Courage*—will offer housing, education, mental health services, job training, and even a cycling therapy program for up to 60 at-risk youth at a time.
“Not just a roof, but a path forward,” said Renée Lamotte, director of the regional nonprofit *Jeunes Sans Frontières*, who will help manage the shelter. “We’re not talking about a temporary fix—we’re talking about rebuilding lives. Tadej is giving these young people more than a second chance. He’s giving them dignity.”
### The Inspiration Behind the Mission
While Pogačar, 26, is known for his blistering climbs and his quiet charm in the peloton, those close to him say this project has been years in the making. His partner, professional cyclist Urska Zigart, shared that during the pandemic, the two frequently volunteered with youth outreach programs in their native Slovenia and in Monaco, where they reside part-time.
“People don’t always see the human behind the helmet,” Zigart said. “But Tadej’s heart is bigger than his trophy cabinet. He’s seen how sport, especially cycling, can lift someone out of despair. He wants to pay that forward.”
Sources close to the project also say Pogačar was deeply moved during his 2023 training stint in Liège, where he often passed through neighborhoods marked by youth homelessness and economic hardship. One morning, he stopped during a ride to speak with a group of teens living under an overpass near the Meuse River. That moment, according to friends, never left him.
### Community and Legacy
Reaction from the cycling world has been swift and overwhelmingly positive. Longtime rival and friend Jonas Vingegaard posted on social media: *“Champion on and off the bike. Huge respect to Tadej.”* Belgian national hero Philippe Gilbert called the initiative “the most beautiful finish line I’ve seen.”
The mayor of Liège, Aurélie Dupont, announced that the city will contribute logistical and zoning support to accelerate the project timeline. “This is more than charity,” Dupont said. “This is justice. And it’s coming from one of the world’s finest athletes.”
The estate’s redesign is being overseen by award-winning sustainable architect Jules Van Houtte, who aims to preserve the manor’s historic character while incorporating solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and eco-friendly materials. Each room will be personalized for its occupant—many of whom have never had a space to call their own.
Van Houtte noted, “Tadej told me, ‘Make it feel like hope.’ That’s been our mission from day one.”
### The Cycling Component
Of course, no Pogačar project would be complete without two wheels involved. *Maison Courage* will feature a full-service bicycle workshop, a bike-sharing program for residents, and a 2.5 km training loop around the estate. Professional riders from UAE Team Emirates, Pogačar’s current team, are expected to participate in mentorship sessions and training camps for the youth.
In a surprising detail, Pogačar hinted that he may host an annual off-season charity race on the grounds, drawing pros and amateurs alike to raise ongoing funds for the shelter.
“It’s one thing to give money,” he said. “It’s another to keep showing up.”
### Looking Ahead
As work begins immediately on restoring the Château de Vervaux, Pogačar is also launching a foundation—the *Pogačar Pathways Initiative*—to fund similar youth shelters across Europe. The foundation’s motto, *“Every young life has a road,”* echoes the cyclist’s belief that opportunity and safety should never be a privilege, but a right.
When asked whether this project might signal a shift toward life after cycling, Pogačar smiled.
“I’m not done racing,” he said. “But if the only thing I’m remembered for is a yellow jersey, then I didn’t do enough. Winning races is incredible. Changing a life? That’s real victory.”