Peter Sagan, the legendary three-time world cycling champion, is set to swap his handlebars for dance shoes as he joins the cast of Strictly Come Dancing. Yes, you read that correctly – Sagan is taking on the dance floor.
The Slovakian cycling icon made the announcement earlier this week on Instagram, declaring, “I’m ready to swap the bicycle for the dance floor! Soon you will be able to see my switch from sprinting to disco.” His fans can expect a new side of the athlete as he transitions from professional cycling to ballroom dancing.
Since retiring in June 2024 after a final stint with the team Pierre Baguette, Sagan has been embracing new adventures. From riding a water bike across the Mediterranean Sea to competing in a gravel race through the Saudi desert, and even skiing in the Dolomites, he has kept busy in ways that go beyond cycling. Now, his latest pursuit is dancing, and he’s eager to show off his skills.
However, UK audiences will have to wait for the dancing spectacle, as Sagan will not appear on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Instead, he will be competing on the Slovakian version of the show, Let’s Dance. The program is set to feature a host of Slovak celebrities, and Sagan’s presence is expected to boost its appeal significantly.
While Sagan’s name is well-known across the globe, especially within the cycling world, his participation in Let’s Dance is a significant moment for the show. According to a quick search of notable Slovak figures, Sagan ranks highly, sharing company with names like former Liverpool defender Martin Škrtel and actress Angelina Jolie, whose great-grandfather was born in Slovakia.
Sagan’s move to dance is not unprecedented in the cycling world. British track sprinter Victoria Pendleton competed on the UK version of Strictly Come Dancing in 2012, shortly after winning an Olympic gold medal. More recently, Paralympian Jody Cundy appeared on the show, and shared his thoughts on the experience. Speaking at the National Track Championships last year, Cundy reflected on how the dance training helped his cycling, particularly in enhancing his balance and stability.
For Sagan, however, dance isn’t about training – it’s about enjoyment. At six months into retirement, the former world champion is eager to embrace the fun of the show. His inspiration for this new venture? None other than Dirty Dancing star Patrick Swayze. According to a press release, Sagan is hoping to channel Swayze’s energy into his own performances.
“I plan to enjoy it and put on a big show,” Sagan said. With his infectious personality, fans are sure to see a memorable performance, whether or not he becomes the next Patrick Swayze.
In other social media updates this week, Lidl-Trek riders take on a game of Buckaroo, Alexander Kristoff strikes a pose for the camera, and Demi Vollering has a new young admirer.
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