Tadej Pogačar was one of the leading personalities in the recent Beking 2024, the fourth edition of the event organized by the Italian pro cyclist Matteo Trentin, held at the end of November in the Principality of Monaco. Founded in 2020 with the goal of supporting charitable organizations through cycling and promoting greater awareness of bicycle use, Beking has quickly become a staple for numerous stars of the cycling world. They gather in the picturesque setting of Port Hercules to compete in a criterium race on Monaco's streets.
From the "Pro-Am" race—an exhibition featuring professionals, ambassador athletes, and amateurs competing on the same criterium bike race course—to the charity race and the unmissable showdown between the pros and youth riders, the event is more than a sporting competition. It's a chance to make a difference in the lives of children and young people through activities focused on sustainability, education, and solidarity. These efforts culminate in the highly anticipated charity auction, whose proceeds support critical projects and causes.
This year, funds raised from the auction of sports memorabilia and exclusive items, such as one of the nine limited-edition custom Prologo "World Champion" saddles autographed by Pogačar, were donated to the Fight AIDS Foundation, the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, and the Beking Foundation, the latter established in 2023 by the riders themselves. "Beking is truly a fantastic event, and I’m always happy to participate each year," said a satisfied Pogačar. "Even though the weather wasn't perfect this time, the race was enjoyable. I’m particularly thrilled to have won here because racing in Monaco is a rare opportunity. It’s always a special experience. I’m grateful to Matteo and the entire team for continuing to organize this event for such an important cause. It's inspiring to see so many people, even in the rain. The event has grown year by year, and it's exciting to see so many children involved—it's essential for the future of this sport, for sustainability, and for the values promoted by Beking. I've also noticed more people cycling in general, which is undoubtedly a positive sign that we're heading in the right direction."
Beking 2024, the criterium bike race
The criterium bike race held in the Principality of Monaco, now officially included in the UCI calendar of events, is a circuit designed by pro cyclists for pro cyclists. It showcases their skills, entertains the audience, and allows the riders to enjoy themselves.
This year's Beking edition began under rain and continued under a cloudy, threatening sky. Yet, it managed to captivate and involve countless cycling enthusiasts who lined the streets of Monaco to see their favorite champions up close. Joining Tadej Pogačar on the podium at the end of the race were Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) and Michael Matthews (Team Jayco AlUla), who claimed second and third places, respectively. Their presence made the competition even more thrilling and fiercely contested right up to the final kilometer. "The weather really tested us," said Matteo Trentin after the race. "But we decided to go ahead, shortening the number of laps without compromising the spectacle. It was fantastic, with an unbeatable atmosphere. I'm thrilled."
Special Guest at Beking 2024: Peter Sagan
The guest of honor at Beking 2024 was none other than Peter Sagan, a three-time World Champion and winner of the Paris-Roubaix and Tour of Flanders. "Many professionals live in Monaco, and it's an absolute privilege to have them all lined up here to support the positive messages this event aims to convey year after year," said Sagan. "Monaco is also easily accessible from a logistical standpoint, which means a lot of people can come here to meet their idols and cheer them on along the course. Beking was a fantastic idea that started well and has now reached its fourth edition. There's always room for improvement. I'm happy to be here. Even though I didn't race, it was important to be present and support the cause."
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In 2023, for example, among the many available models, the unique Colnago TT1 used by Tadej Pogačar during the 2022 season with Team UAE Emirates was sold. In short, there are plenty of reasons to buy a bike on Bikeroom. We’ve listed at least four of them in this article.
Colnago TT1 with disc brakes used by Tadej Pogačar during the 2022 season with Team UAE Emirates