[Updated] Pogačar slapped with 5,000 CHF fine for 'incorrect placement of publicity' on world champ's jersey

Following his dominant victory at Liège-Bastogne-Liège, UAE Team Emirates' Tadej Pogačar was issued a 5,000 CHF fine by the race jury for "incorrect placement of publicity" on his rainbow jersey. The infraction, noted in the post-race report, relates to the positioning of sponsor logos on his world champion's kit, a detail often scrutinised by UCI officials. This penalty was levied shortly after his impressive fourth win of the season and fifth consecutive podium finish.

This financial penalty, equivalent to approximately €5,100, highlights the UCI's stringent regulations regarding kit presentation, particularly for world champions. Pogačar, adorned in the coveted rainbow stripes for his Gravel World Championship title, is far from the first rider to fall foul of these rules. The UCI's meticulous oversight of sponsor placement ensures brand visibility adheres to precise guidelines, a constant tension between commercial imperatives and sporting regulations that often catches out even the sport's biggest stars.

While the fine is a mere trifle for a rider of Pogačar's stature, it serves as a stark reminder that even the most celebrated champions are not above the UCI's notoriously pedantic rulebook.