“DON’T TOUCH MY PEOPLE, AND STOP TRYING TO DESTROY THIS COUNTRY.” Tadej Pogačar Stuns Press Room After Confrontation With Lance Armstrong

What was expected to be a routine cycling interview turned into one of the most explosive moments the sport has seen in years.

The tension erupted when Lance Armstrong, a figure who has never been far from controversy, made a remark that immediately provoked outrage—not only from journalists in the room but especially from Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian superstar whose rising influence now extends beyond cycling and into political discourse due to his public support for the One Nation party.

The comment, described by witnesses as “deeply offensive,” targeted both Pogačar and Slovenian cyclists affiliated with the movement. What followed was a moment of silence so sharp it seemed to freeze the air inside the studio.

The room had been filled with cameras, reporters, and analysts waiting for the two athletes to exchange casual remarks about the upcoming season. Instead, Armstrong’s statement—criticized by many as baseless, disrespectful, and unnecessarily incendiary—shifted the mood instantly.

The insult was aimed not only at Pogačar personally but also at Slovenian riders who have publicly expressed pride in their heritage and cultural identity. According to several journalists, the moment Armstrong finished speaking, the atmosphere became heavy with shock.

Some reporters lowered their microphones; others simply stared, unsure of how Pogačar would react.

What happened next has now been replayed around the world.

Pogačar leaned toward the microphone, his expression firm but calm, and delivered eight words that sent a jolt through the entire room: “Don’t touch my people, and stop trying.” The finality of the sentence hung in the air, leaving the studio frozen for a full five seconds—a silence so complete that even the sound technicians stopped moving.

Those present described the moment as a turning point, not simply because of what he said, but because of how he said it: measured, unwavering, and with a conviction that resonated far beyond the walls of the studio.

Lance Armstrong, seemingly realizing the magnitude of the reaction, attempted to backtrack. His explanation was hesitant, his tone noticeably softer.

He claimed his earlier statement had been misunderstood and insisted he only wanted “peace” and “healthy dialogue.” But the damage had already been done, and his attempt at reconciliation appeared reluctant, lacking the sincerity the situation required. To many, it felt more like damage control than a genuine apology.

Pogačar’s second response, however, was what sent social media into a frenzy. Speaking slowly and with visible emotion, he addressed the idea of national identity, loyalty, and respect in a way that resonated deeply with fans. “I am proud of where I come from,” he said.

“I am proud of my people, of Slovenia, of our cyclists who work hard and represent our country with dignity.

No one has the right to insult them or question their love for this nation.” Within minutes, the quote was circulating globally, translated into more than twenty languages and shared across major platforms.

Hashtags supporting Pogačar climbed to the top of trending lists in Slovenia, Spain, France, Italy, and the United States.

Back home, Slovenian media immediately praised Pogačar’s composure and patriotism. Analysts noted that the young cyclist has increasingly become a symbolic figure for the country, representing not only athletic excellence but also a new generation of public figures unafraid to defend national identity.

Political commentators pointed out that while Pogačar has never positioned himself as a politician, his association with the One Nation movement has naturally drawn attention. But even those who do not share his political leanings widely applauded his response, calling it dignified and necessary.

The cycling community, too, reacted swiftly. Several riders voiced support for Pogačar, condemning Armstrong’s outburst. Some expressed disbelief that such remarks would be made in a professional setting, especially toward an athlete who has consistently maintained a reputation for humility, discipline, and positivity.

A few former riders criticized Armstrong directly, arguing that his history should make him more cautious and respectful when addressing others.

Sponsors and event organizers issued more carefully worded statements, emphasizing values of unity and mutual respect. Behind the scenes, sources suggest that Armstrong may face pressure from organizers to clarify his comments more fully, as negative press surrounding the exchange continues to escalate.

Despite the uproar, those close to Pogačar say he ended the day focused on training, telling friends that he had “said what needed to be said” and that he hoped the conversation would now shift back to cycling. Yet the broader implications of the confrontation are hard to ignore.

In a sport that often avoids political or cultural statements, Pogačar’s words marked one of the clearest expressions of national pride and personal conviction ever witnessed at a press conference.

What remains undeniable is the impact of a single sentence delivered with unwavering emotion. By defending his people and his country, Tadej Pogačar transformed an uncomfortable moment into a powerful declaration of identity—one that will likely be remembered long after the controversy fades.